Green bus hits top gear

INIS Oírr this week took delivery of the first electric mini-bus to operate on the islands.Minister of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív officially launched the new arrival, which must be the most eco-friendly service in the country. It offers a 70 per cent reduction in fuel costs; a reduction of up to 100 per cent in CO2 emissions, as well as reduced noise - and significantly lower operating costs as a result. “It is particularly noteworthy that even the energy required to recharge the batteries on the bus will come from renewable sources, in wind turbines,” said the Minister.This project has been established by Comhar Caomhán to provide transport services for islanders and tourists alike. The Minister said that he was very impressed with this innovative project, which will provide a safe, regular transport service for the island community while at the same time utilising 'green energy’ to do so.The bus has been adapted to make it wheelchair accessible. The gear system has been adapted to improve its ability to go uphill. Additionally, for…..