All aboard: Ahern, Brennan get ticket to ride
However, the switch was less designed as a concessionary gesture towards angry bus drivers rather than their desire to fulfil a commitment to attend a pre-arranged photocall. In the climate of threats of a nationwide bus strike over Mr Brennan’s plans to privatise part of Dublin’s bus services, the two politicians could be forgiven for cursing the timing of such an event.
But Mr Ahern and Mr Brennan put on brave faces, knowing the crowd of assembled journalists were quietly delighting in the irony of the situation.
The real reason for their presence in Merrion Square yesterday was the launch of five buses as part of Dublin Bus’ efforts to “do its bit” for the Irish EU presidency.
The double-decker vehicles have been decked out in special EU livery, complete with the colours, emblems and stars, to mark Ireland’s term at the wheels of the EU gravy bus.
“We wanted to support the Irish presidency whilst at the same time showcasing the city of Dublin and our company, so we decided to use our buses as complete advertisements for the EU presidency,” explained Dublin Bus spokesperson` Gráinne Macken.
Also attending the ceremony were Dublin Bus employees, drivers from EU member states as well as the accession countries to demonstrate the company’s progressive multiculturalism policies.
Over 8% of the company’s drivers are non-Irish, representing 45 different countries.
The buses will be in service for the six-month duration of the presidency - assuming they don’t go the same route as certain EU policies by adopting a two-speed approach.
