Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

135. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps he is taking to review the current public sector motor travel rates; and if they include appropriate compensation for those using bikes and e-bikes which informs the rates that are paid tax free to private sector workers (details supplied). [9387/20]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Travel and subsistence arrangements for the Civil Service are agreed between the official and staff side representatives under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for the Civil Service. The rates are designed to recoup travelling officers for expenses genuinely incurred in respect of work related travel where the official uses their own car on official business. The rates agreed for the Civil Service are paid on a tax free basis and also apply to the wider Public Service and are recognised by the Revenue Commissioners for use in the private sector.

The rates are based on a methodology which takes account of both overhead costs such as car purchase costs, depreciation and insurance and also running costs including fuel and maintenance. The rates are intended to reimburse an officer for the costs incurred and are not considered to be a source of emolument or profit and are not paid in respect of home to work travel.

The current rate applying to officials who use their own bikes on travel related to official business is 8c per kilometre and has been in place since 2007. The 8c rate was determined by reference to earlier work in this area and relates to the capital cost of a bicycle, annual wear, maintenance, cleaning and repairs, and protective clothing. 

The current rates are under review. My officials are considering the arrangements now in place and assessing their suitability for the current environment.