The order forms part of a £66 million investment in Wrightbus electric models and brings the total number of vehicles purchased by Greater Manchester for its Bee Network to 293.
  
Ms Mulholland spoke with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham during his visit to Northern Ireland when he attended the Alliance Party conference on Saturday (14 March).
  
Welcoming the news, Ms Mulholland said: “This order is fantastic news for Wrightbus and for workers in Ballymena, demonstrating the strength of our advanced manufacturing sector and the vital role it plays in delivering the transition to cleaner transport across these islands.
  
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to speak with Andy Burnham at the Alliance Party conference today and to hear first-hand about Greater Manchester’s ambitions for the Bee Network. His visit to Ballymena and continued investment in Wrightbus is a strong endorsement of the innovation, quality and expertise that exists here in North Antrim.
  
“Orders like this support good local jobs, strengthen our economy and highlight how Northern Ireland businesses are contributing to climate solutions far beyond our region.
 
“As the Bee Network continues its transition towards a fully electric bus fleet by 2030, it is encouraging to see Ballymena playing such a central role in delivering the next generation of zero-emission public transport.”