Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We do not have accurate estimates for the scheme. Revenue is not collating the numbers; the Department is just estimating them. Is that correct? The Minister is saying we do not have any definitive numbers as to how many people are applying for it. Given the value of the scheme now with electric cargo bikes and being able to avail of €3,000, is there any intention to have actual verifiable figures for how many people are availing of it?

Has the Minister considered that somebody who applies for the scheme should be able to retain the benefits of it if they move into another form of employment? For example, let us say Mr. X was to approach his employer and apply under the cycle to work scheme. The employer purchases the bicycle and deductions are made to the salary. The benefit to the individual is that if they are paying the higher rate of tax, they are saving about half the cost of the bicycle. If that person gets laid off or moves employment, they have to make all the payment to the employer before they leave. In a scenario where a person moves from one employment to another, which also operates a cycle to work scheme, surely in this day and age they should not have to pay up to €1,000. Indeed, with these bikes they could have to pay up to €2,500 or €3,000 even though the new employer may operate the same scheme. There are rules and criteria for the scheme whereby people can only apply for it every four years. Has any consideration been given to that?