Ó Cuiv unveils emission-free carrier

The country's first emission-free people carrier has been unveiled on Inis Oírr today by Gaeltacht Minister Éamon Ó Cuív.

The five-seater eco-vehicle for locals and tourists will save on normal running costs such as fuel, tax and insurance while also reducing noise and Co2 emissions.

The batteries on the minibus, called An Bus Pobail, will also be recharged using renewable energy from local wind turbines.

The Government provided 80 per cent of the €47,000 cost of the electric bus, which was manufactured by Dublin-based GMI Green Machines and will be operated by Comhar Caomhán Teo, the island's co-operative.

Sustainable Energy Ireland gave advice on the project and is studying the future potential of more such vehicles on other Aran Islands.

Mr Ó Cuív praised the co-operative spirit demonstrated by the local Comhar Caomhan co-op and other groups involved in the project.

"This innovative project will provide a safe, regular transport service for the island community while utilising green energy. It is also a big step towards sustainability because it will lead to less dependency on fuel on the island."