Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2022
193. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport his views on shared e-bike rental schemes; their potential to significantly encourage modal shift in regional cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34183/22]
View answer194. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport his views on the role of Government in supporting e-Bike rental schemes in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34184/22]
View answer195. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport his views that shared e-Bike rental schemes can complement existing station-based bikes schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34185/22]
View answer196. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has engaged with local authorities regarding the roll-out of e-Bike rental schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34186/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 193 to 196, inclusive, together.
The use of e-bikes is proving to be an increasingly popular method of travel, whether for commuting or leisure purposes, and is encouraging more people to choose to cycle. Bearing this in mind, and referencing the commitment by the Government to increase funding to active travel, I can assure the Deputy that all potential incentives to potential purchasers of bikes and e-bikes will be taken into consideration as part of the budgetary process.
The Deputy will be interested to know that last year the NOW TV dublinbikes scheme was enhanced with the upgrade of 50% of the fleet of 1,600 to hybrid electric bikes, which commenced on March 30th when the first batch of e-dublinbikes were launched. The NOW TV dublinbikes scheme is funded through my department.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to cycling and public transport infrastructure. The management of the public bike schemes is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA), which works closely with the relevant local authorities.
Noting the NTA's role in the matter, I have referred your question to the NTA for a more detailed reply in relation to bike rental schemes and the use of existing station based bike schemes.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
