On 1 January 2009 a new government scheme to encourage people to cycle to work came into force. The new bike scheme covers bicycles and accessories up to a maximum cost of €1,000.

The bicycle must be purchased by your employer but the scheme can then operate either with your employer bearing the full cost of the bicycle, or by way of a salary sacrifice agreement (like the existing travel card scheme) in which you pay for it, tax free, over 12 months.

Full details on www.bikescheme.ie