Kennedy Encourages Cycle To Work

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy is encouraging Northern Ireland employers to take advantage of the tax-free Cycle to Work Scheme for employees.

The Scheme is an initiative from HM Revenue and Customs which enables employers to provide bicycles tax-free to employees through a salary sacrifice arrangement.

Over 28,000 employers across the UK have already set up schemes.

Danny Kennedy said: "Northern Ireland cycle retailers have indicated that currently over 50% of their cycle sales are being generated as a result of the many employers here who have already set up schemes for their employees.

"I am looking forward to the impact of the Scheme on promoting sustainable travel. While employees may not use the bicycles every day the availability of bicycles will increase the likelihood of commuters choosing this commuting choice for their journey or part of the journey. They are not only helping to reduce congestion on our roads and reduce vehicle emissions but they are benefiting from lower costs and, importantly for themselves, they are choosing a healthy lifestyle."

The Civil & Public Service Cycling Club has been formed by the growing number of cyclists in the NI Civil Service as a result of the implementation of the Scheme in June 2012.

Danny Kennedy said: "I wish to congratulate the Civil Service Cycling Club, particularly those staff who took advantage of the tax efficient Cycle to Work Scheme I launched last year, and I congratulate all cyclists in the Civil Service on contributing to the growing number of commuters choosing cycling for the journey to work."

(IT/CD)