28/08/2025
DAERA Minister Visits Wrightbus To See Zero-Emission Transport Innovation
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has visited Wrightbus' Ballymena headquarters to see the company's work in zero-emission transport and its contribution to Northern Ireland's green economy.
During the visit, the Minister toured the production facilities where Wrightbus manufactures its hydrogen and battery-electric buses, including the world’s first hydrogen-powered double-decker bus. The company employs around 2,300 staff and supports thousands more through its supply chain.
The visit coincides with a public consultation on the draft Climate Action Plan (Northern Ireland) 2023–2027, which outlines actions to reduce emissions and create green jobs, including in sustainable transport.
Minister Muir said that Wrightbus "exemplifies how Northern Ireland can lead the way in green innovation," adding that the company's commitment to zero-emission technology helps tackle climate change while also supporting highly skilled jobs and economic growth in the area.
Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales said it was a pleasure to host the Minister and show him how the company has invested in new technologies to drive growth, decarbonisation, and green job creation. He noted that the company will support an additional 7,200 jobs in its supply chain by 2027.
The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss hydrogen infrastructure, skills development, and the role of public procurement in accelerating the transition to zero-emission transport.
During the visit, the Minister toured the production facilities where Wrightbus manufactures its hydrogen and battery-electric buses, including the world’s first hydrogen-powered double-decker bus. The company employs around 2,300 staff and supports thousands more through its supply chain.
The visit coincides with a public consultation on the draft Climate Action Plan (Northern Ireland) 2023–2027, which outlines actions to reduce emissions and create green jobs, including in sustainable transport.
Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales said it was a pleasure to host the Minister and show him how the company has invested in new technologies to drive growth, decarbonisation, and green job creation. He noted that the company will support an additional 7,200 jobs in its supply chain by 2027.
The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss hydrogen infrastructure, skills development, and the role of public procurement in accelerating the transition to zero-emission transport.
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
16 March 2022
Infrastructure Minister Visits Wrightbus Factory
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has visited the Wrightbus factory to see their new Zero Emission Buses as they are made ready to join the Translink fleet.
Infrastructure Minister Visits Wrightbus Factory
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has visited the Wrightbus factory to see their new Zero Emission Buses as they are made ready to join the Translink fleet.
05 March 2002
Trade Minister visits County Down textile company
The Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment Sir Reg Empey has paid a visit to County Down textile company Bradfor Ltd. The company, which is based in Rostrevor in south Down, manufactures aircraft seat covers and is currently seeking to expand its workforce.
Trade Minister visits County Down textile company
The Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment Sir Reg Empey has paid a visit to County Down textile company Bradfor Ltd. The company, which is based in Rostrevor in south Down, manufactures aircraft seat covers and is currently seeking to expand its workforce.
18 June 2025
Consultation Launches On Baby Loss Certificate Scheme
A public consultation has now been launched seeking views on a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme, which will be open to parents who have experienced the loss of a baby prior to the end of the 24th week of pregnancy.
Consultation Launches On Baby Loss Certificate Scheme
A public consultation has now been launched seeking views on a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme, which will be open to parents who have experienced the loss of a baby prior to the end of the 24th week of pregnancy.
18 October 2010
Politicians Help 'Kick Hate Into Touch'
An innovative campaign, the 'Unite Against Hate' sporting weekend has been launched. Stormont First Minister Peter Robinson and his Junior Minister Gerry Kelly (pictured) joined forces to support the campaign which highlights all forms of hate crime and challenges people here to unite to stop it.
Politicians Help 'Kick Hate Into Touch'
An innovative campaign, the 'Unite Against Hate' sporting weekend has been launched. Stormont First Minister Peter Robinson and his Junior Minister Gerry Kelly (pictured) joined forces to support the campaign which highlights all forms of hate crime and challenges people here to unite to stop it.
24 January 2012
Invest NI Announces Major Drive To Boost Exports
Chief Executive of Invest Northern Ireland Alastair Hamilton has said that Northern Irish companies will have greater opportunities than ever before to develop export business during 2012/13.
Invest NI Announces Major Drive To Boost Exports
Chief Executive of Invest Northern Ireland Alastair Hamilton has said that Northern Irish companies will have greater opportunities than ever before to develop export business during 2012/13.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.