Dáil Clash Over €335k Bike Shed for Maternity Hospital
A heated debate erupted in the Dáil recently over the cost of a bike shed for the National Maternity Hospital. Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald clashed over the price tag, with Martin insisting that value for money should apply.
The bike shed, intended for hospital staff who cycle to work, was initially budgeted at €100,000 by the Taoiseach. However, Mary Lou McDonald argued that the cost had spiralled to €335,000, referencing previous controversies. The project, funded under the National Transport Authority's Active Travel programme, began in 2021 and includes destroying the existing shed, improving the ground, and installing sensor lighting.
Martin maintained that the cost was reasonable given the project's scope. He believes the new shed will provide 'safe and secure bicycle parking' for staff. McDonald, however, slammed the tender as 'outrageous' and a 'slap in the face' to hard-working families, questioning the government's spending record.
The bike shed controversy highlights ongoing concerns about government spending. While the Taoiseach defends the cost, opposition parties argue that the price is excessive. The final cost and completion date for the project remain under scrutiny.
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