How An Mheitheal Rothar is Accelerating the Circular Economy in Ireland
Through their DIY sessions, where volunteer mechanics help all newcomers learn the skills to fix their own bikes, An Mheitheal Rothar has helped 3,420 people, empowering cyclists to get back on the road without the need of outside help. As part of their circular economy approach, they have even trained 32 bike mechanics to carry forward their mission. They currently employ four trainee mechanics who learn by doing, repairing bikes that would otherwise be discarded, returning them to use. This also has social benefits, bringing people who have struggled to gain employment into the labour market via the circular economy.
Galway, with its rich history, lively arts scene, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic, is a city that offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Its narrow streets and medieval layout, while part of what makes the city so special, can also lead to logistical challenges when it comes to traffic management. Over the years, Galway has experienced significant growth, both in terms of population and development, and with that has come an increasing number of cars on the road.
This is where cycling can play a transformative role. Unlike cars, bikes take up minimal space on the road, meaning that even a modest increase in the number of cyclists could significantly reduce the volume of traffic on Galway’s streets. Cycling also allows people to bypass many of the obstacles that cause congestion, such as parking issues and bottlenecks, making it a faster and more reliable way to get around the city. Beyond easing traffic, cycling has environmental benefits too, helping to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions—issues that cities like Galway are increasingly mindful of as they work towards more sustainable solutions.
The work that An Mheitheal Rothar do in Galway is testament to this. Their support reaches beyond just cycling enthusiasts. Through a partnership with University of Sanctuary, they’ve provided 10 upcycled bikes and accessories to students, many of whom have found a lifeline in their new bikes. As one student put it, “The bike could not have come at a better time… I cycle for 30 minutes almost every day. This has helped my mental health greatly because I do not feel as burnt out as I was before.”
Through Cycle-Friendly Employer certification, employers and employees alike can see firsthand what the team at An Mheitheal Rothar are capable of – CFE Ireland have partnered with An Mheitheal Rothar to bring their bike mechanics to certified workplaces and campuses across Ireland, with two mechanics capable of working on up to 50 bikes a day. They provide everything from advice on maintenance, to cable adjustments and puncture repairs, making it easy for commuters to keep their bikes in top shape. After four years of promoting active travel and driving behavioural change across organisations of all sizes all over Ireland, we’ve found that having an on-site mechanic available at the workplace is incredibly valuable for employees. It gives them the chance to ask questions about everything bike-related, whether they’re looking to get back into cycling or start commuting by bike for the first time.
With every repair they do and every trainee mechanic they support, An Mheitheal Rothar is further contributing to a robust circular economy for Ireland’s active travel sector. CFE Ireland is excited to continue working closely with An Mheitheal Rothar, bringing their expertise and skills to organisations across the country.
