SDLP Climate Champion Cara Hunter has welcomed the unveiling of the first battery electric double decker bus for public transport in Ireland.

SDLP Infrastructure Nichola Mallon unveiled the first of 80 buses on Thursday.

The buses are due to be in passenger service by Spring 2022.

Ms Hunter said Minister Mallon’s commitment was the latest indication of the SDLP’s determination to deliver initiatives to tackle the climate crisis.

East Derry MLA Ms Hunter said:

“It’s incredibly exciting that the North will have the first battery electric bus in operation on the island of Ireland. This bus, the first of 80 buses of its kind, previously announced by SDLP Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon will play a huge part decarbonising our public transport and tackling the climate crisis.

“This was a particularly timely announcement coming as world leaders meet to discuss initiatives to tackle the climate crisis at COP26 in Glasgow. While others pay lip service to the idea of tackling climate issues and protecting our environment Minister Mallon gets on with the job of delivering real projects that will go a long way to safeguarding all of our futures.

“Since taking office Minister Mallon has led the way in proposals to save our planet, while her Executive colleagues often drag their feet. Today’s announcement follows hot on the heels of the announcement of a fleet of zero carbon buses for Derry and a number of other plans aimed at getting vehicles off our roads and people onto public transport. Once again the SDLP minister has typified our view that politicians need to deliver on the things that matter to local people and there is no issue more important than tackling the climate crisis.”