Eiresol Style

Dubliners will have a free bike scheme of their own early next year, it was confirmed today. Labour councillor Andrew Montague said there would be 500 bikes at 25 stations in key locations across the capital. The Ballymun-Whitehall representative said the success of the scheme in Paris, Lyon and Oslo showed that people could be encouraged out of their cars.

A commuter arriving at Heuston Station would be able to cycle to Baggot Street in about 15 minutes, he said, adding: “Try doing that in rush hour.” He went on: “A computer system will keep track on who is using the bikes, and anyone who decides to throw their bike in the Liffey will automatically lose their 150 euro deposit. “That should deter even the most fool-hardy pranksters.”