dlr becomes first Local Authority in Ireland to achieve Gold Certificate as a European Cycle Friendly Employer

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (dlr) has proudly received the prestigious Gold Cycle-Friendly Employer certification from the European Cyclists’ Federation, making it the first cycle-friendly county council in Ireland. This achievement demonstrates dlr's ongoing dedication to encourage staff to cycle to work and incorporate cycling into their daily routines.

Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, expressed his delight at the Council's success. He stated:

“We are delighted to today receive the first Local Authority Gold Certificate as a European Cycle Friendly Employer. I am pleased to see that dlr has been awarded this gold certificate for their ongoing encouragement of staff to cycle to work and as part of their daily duties.

"Staff are then able to enjoy the various benefits associated with sustainable travel, such as health, environmental, cost savings while also helping to reduce traffic congestion. dlr will continue to support and develop more sustainable transport patterns for all.”

The Cycle-Friendly Employer program, administered by the European Cyclists’ Federation, acknowledges exceptional commitment to cycling in the workplace and provides employers with an objective, EU-standard framework to measure cycle-friendliness. It evaluates employers' cycling infrastructure, facilities, and cultural strategies and can be applied to organisations of all sizes.

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, emphasised the significance of this accomplishment and said:

“Being the first local authority in Ireland to achieve a Gold rated Cycle Friendly Employer Certification is a great achievement, this furthers our commitment to reduce our transport-related carbon emissions as we work toward our Climate Action targets.”

Michael O’Boyle, CEO of Cycling Solutions Ireland said:

“I am delighted to award dlr with the gold Cycle-Friendly Employer Certification. As the first county council in Ireland, dlr has shown consistent and impactful commitment to active and sustainable travel across the organisation.”