A Labour spokesperson on climate has called on the government to expand the bike-to-work scheme to apply to schools and the self-employed, as part of the party’s Cycling Package in Budget 2024.
Delivering this tax package, along with funding local authorities to deliver active travel infrastructure, would be a major step in the right direction in terms of reducing emissions and tackling traffic congestion, Senator Rebecca Moynihan has claimed.
In addition to expanding the bike-to-work scheme, the main proposals in the cycling package include the introduction of zero rate VAT on bicycles, e-bikes and safety equipment, introducing a car scrappage scheme for those who trade in old cars in exchange for e-bikes and cargo bikes and expanding the city bike scheme to five new towns.
“According to Eurostat, Ireland had the largest increase in emissions in the EU last year, one of just four countries to increase emissions annually,” said Senator Moynihan.
“Fundamental change is needed to achieve our emissions reduction targets. Delivering Labour’s Cycling Package would be a major step in the right direction.
“The government has also committed to increasing the number of people cycling and walking.
“Labour’s Cycling Package would help the government to achieve this target by making cycling more affordable, accessible and safe for everyone.”
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