Ministers are to launch a drive to cut pollution and reduce traffic congestion with the first cross-border car-sharing scheme.

Commuters living in Donegal, Derry and Strabane are being offered the chance to sign up to a new website which allows them to share the daily journey to and from work.

It is hoped the project will reduce traffic levels along heavily congested routes, thereby cutting pollution and helping drivers save money.

The scheme has been backed by ministers on both sides of the border.

Stormont's Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, and the Republic's Transport Minister, Noel Dempsey, said two people sharing a daily journey between Letterkenny and Derry for a year could save £1,000.

Mr Murphy said: "This is a welcome new car-share initiative for North West commuters which is free to use and will help to reduce congestion and pollution in the region."

The new scheme will be launched at Derry City Council Offices by Mayor of Derry Paul Fleming, Deputy Mayor of Donegal County Charlie McConalogue and Vice-Chairman of Strabane District Council James O'Kane.

Potential users can join the scheme on the Car Share North West website, www.carsharenw.com.

Mr Dempsey said: "This is tangible evidence of close cross-border co-operation through the North South Ministerial Council. It turns fine words and good intentions into a real and valuable service for people in the North West region.

"For example, two people sharing a daily return journey between Letterkenny and Derry could save around 1,100 euros or £1,000 per year. Car-sharing is not only a smarter way to travel, but it also puts money back into people's pockets."