Failed rollout of Dublin Bikes “missed opportunity” says Ó Muirí

Critical gaps in the Dublin Bikes scheme must be addressed to ensure fair access to a vital public service, a Fine Gael councillor has said.

Councillor Naoise Ó Muirí has called for what he calls a “more equitable distribution of bike stations,” particularly in areas like North Dublin and parts of Dublin South Central, where residents currently lack access to the facility.

“The Dublin Bikes scheme has been an outstanding initiative, contributing to the city’s efforts to promote sustainable and healthy modes of transportation. However, despite its success, there remain significant blind spots in the scheme’s coverage,” he said

“When Dublin Bikes was introduced in 2009, it was launching ahead of even New York City’s bike-sharing program. However, unlike other global cities, Dublin’s system has unfortunately stagnated and failed to extend beyond the canals.”

He said the lack of growth represents a “missed opportunity for our city to build on its early success and become a leader in sustainable transport.”

“Parts of North Dublin are almost entirely excluded. This a concern given the significant investment in cycling infrastructure in these areas, including the coastal cycle route and the Clontarf to Connolly corridor, at a cost of €62 million,” he noted.

“Residents across all these areas contribute to public funding through taxes like the Local Property Tax. This is not just an oversight—it’s an equity issue that we must address if we are serious about making Dublin a more connected and accessible city for all its residents.”

“Beyond the immediate benefits of expanding and regulating bike-sharing services, this initiative is a critical step towards fostering a broader culture of cycling in Dublin. To encourage more people to take up cycling, we need to ensure that it is seen as a safe, viable, and enjoyable mode of transportation— in all parts of the city.”

“A more connected, safer, and greener Dublin is within our grasp– where everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to sustainable transportation options. This is about building a futureproof city, one that is resilient, inclusive, and committed to all residents in Dublin,” he said.