Leinster House Bike Shed: A Hub of Humility and Wit

In the bustling heart of Dublin, nestled amidst the grandeur of Leinster House, lies a humble abode: the bike shed. Far removed from the hallowed halls of power within its grand brick walls, this unassuming structure houses an eclectic collection of two-wheeled companions, each bearing witness to the diverse personalities and journeys of the people who ride them.

Step into the bike shed, and you'll be struck by a sense of camaraderie that transcends party lines and political affiliations. Here, bicycles of all shapes and sizes stand shoulder to shoulder, united by their shared purpose of providing reliable transportation. Some, gleaming like freshly polished jewels, are the pride and joy of their owners, while others, scarred and weathered, tell tales of countless adventures. The scent of grease and rubber fills the air, mingling with the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee from the nearby canteen.

Amidst this sea of metal and gears, one bike stands out: a vintage Raleigh, its turquoise paint faded but still vibrant. This is the bike of esteemed politician and former Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. In his memoir, Ahern fondly recalls the "faithful steed" that carried him through countless election campaigns, its wheels rolling through the streets of Dublin, connecting him with constituents and ultimately to the highest office in the land.

But the bike shed is more than just a place to store bicycles. It is a social hub, a place where lawmakers and staff alike gather to chat, share stories, and maybe even poke a little fun at each other. Here, the cloak of formality is cast aside, replaced by a sense of equality and shared humanity. The bike shed is a reminder that even those who occupy the corridors of power are, at heart, just people with a shared love of cycling.

The bike shed is also a witness to the changing times. In recent years, there has been a surge in the number of politicians cycling to work. This is due in part to the growing awareness of the importance of health and well-being, but also to the city's expanding network of cycle lanes. As more and more TDs and senators take to two wheels, the bike shed has become an even more vibrant and diverse community.

One of the most ardent cyclists in Leinster House is Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee. A regular commuter from her home in Meath, McEntee believes that cycling not only improves her physical and mental health but also helps her to connect with the people she represents. "When you're cycling, you're not in a bubble," she says. "You're part of your community. You see things that you wouldn't normally see if you were driving. And you meet people that you wouldn't normally meet."

The bike shed is more than just a place to store bikes. It is a symbol of humility, wit, and community. It is a reminder that even those who hold positions of power are, at heart, just people with a shared love of cycling. As the wheels of history continue to turn, the bike shed will undoubtedly remain a fixture in Leinster House, a humble but essential part of Ireland's political landscape.
So, the next time you're passing by Leinster House, be sure to take a moment to admire the bike shed. And remember, even the most powerful people in the land need to get around somehow.