BUS Éireann has confirmed that it is carrying out an internal review of an incident that occurred at Aughaville, outside Drimoleague, at 7.30pm on March 25th.

A spokesperson for the company said an internal review is standard procedure following any incident and added: ‘The safety of our passengers, staff, and the public is of paramount importance to Bus Éireann.’

It is understood that as the bus, which was operating on Route 236 between Bantry and Drimoleague, was pulling in it tilted by about 20 degrees.

This resulted in the exit being blocked against a ditch, thereby temporarily trapping the passengers inside.

The emergency services, including the gardaí, National Ambulance Service, the Fire Brigade and members of West Cork Rapid Response, were quickly on the scene once the alarm was raised.

The situation was not as serious as had been feared. Neither the driver nor  any of the passengers were reported as injured as a result of the incident. 

The first responders assisted in helping the passengers to disembark safely, and then to transfer to an alternative vehicle, and continue their onward journey.