Cycle to work scheme - Buying abroad

Dortilolma

My bike was stolen on Friday and I now want to avail of the cycle to work scheme to get a new bike. I'd discussed it with my employer before, but we decided since I had a bike it wasn't really worth it. However, now I need one it is useful to know he isn't averse to the idea.

Anyways, I'm currently in the UK and need to purchase waterproofs while I'm here, could my employer purchase these for me from the UK and the purchases still be eligible?

This section of the FAQ on www.bikescheme.ie has me hopeful

Q. Can a bicycle be bought anywhere, e.g. online from abroad, or will it have to be bought in Ireland or from a pre-approved selection of shops?
A. There are no limits as to where the bicycle should be purchased by the employer.

but I just wanted to check.

Chips Lovell

As long as your employer agrees, the bike or equipment can be bought from anywhere.

Beasty

Just watch out on the VAT. Bikes bought in Ireland are subject to 21.5%. "Personal imports" (ie where you go and pick it up, as opposed to mail order) from the UK (including NI) are subject to 15% (goes up to 17.5% or possibly higher from January 2010). Mail Order/online purchases from the UK can be either at the lower UK rate (eg CRC/Slane Cycles) or the higher Irish rate (eg Wiggle because they are above the thresshold for registering for Irish VAT).

stuf

It also has to be a single purchase of bike and equipment as far as I know.