The Government should take measures such as reducing VAT on e-bike rental from 13.5% to 9% and waiving tolls for shared cars in off-peak hours, according to a group representing companies involved with shared mobility operating in Dublin.
Mobility Partnership Ireland, which represents Moby, Bleeper, Enterprise Mobility, GoCar, Toyota Yukō, Freenow, Aircoach and Payzone, said that it is making the call to help Ireland “deliver on its ambitious climate change commitments”.
At the start of Dublin Climate Week and ahead of Budget 2024, it is calling on the Government to help them facilitate a transport shift by applying a minimal VAT rate on hire of e-bikes, simplifying the reduced VAT rate on vehicle hire, waiving tolls charged for shared mobility during off-peak hours, for the Government to cover a reduction in all bus passenger fares including commercial operators by 20%, and introduce a tax-free Shared Mobility Allowance.
Brendan Grieve, chairperson of Mobility Partnership Ireland, said: “As Dublin Climate Action Week commences, Mobility Partnership Ireland (MPI) is urging the government to implement forward-thinking policies that will promote sustainable mobility solutions and support the shift towards a sustainable sharing economy.”
“By encouraging the use of shared transport options, we can significantly reduce emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and move closer to our 2030 climate goals,” he said. “With nearly four million commuters relying on our services, it’s crucial that we prioritise commuter-centred policies that make sustainable travel accessible and affordable for everyone.”
He added: “With the right policies in place, we can transform Dublin’s transport system for the better.”