Expanded Bike to Work Scheme to benefit commuters during Covid-19 and beyond – Bruton

The newly expanded Bike to Work Scheme will be of real benefit to commuters during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond, Fine Gael Party Chair Richard Bruton TD has said.

Deputy Bruton said, “Welcome changes have been made to the Bike to Work Scheme under the July Stimulus, the Government’s plan to help get Ireland’s businesses back on their feet and get as many people as possible back to work quickly.

“You can now get tax relief on payments of up to €1,250 for a new bike including accessories and the all-important safety equipment. For a bike with an electric motor of up to 0.25 kW you can get the higher sum of up to €1,500.

“Under the scheme you can reapply every four years for a new bike. Your employer must be willing to take part by setting up a salary sacrifice arrangement for you.

“Many people are concerned about using public transport when the time comes for them to return to the office.

“I cycle to work myself and it is great for fitness and general wellbeing. Cyclists are also contributing to lowering carbon emissions, reducing traffic congestion and so it makes total sense for the Government to encourage and support cycling to work.

“This has become all the more pertinent during COVID-19 where people might not feel ready to take public transport just yet. We need to do everything we can to avoid significant increases in traffic congestion again and supporting cycling to work is one way to do it.

“The Programme for Government commits to increasing safety for walking and cycling to work and I look forward to working with my colleagues on these measures. We are already seeing great examples of this in Dublin with new and improved segregated cycling lanes.”

.@RichardbrutonTD explains how the Bike to Work Scheme has now been enhanced through the July Stimulus Package. 🚴

Watch this video to find out more.👇 pic.twitter.com/Aga4l31Xs0

— Fine Gael (@FineGael) August 5, 2020