A bicycle sale, repairs and upcycling shop, which works with people with a history of addiction, is to receive a €548,000 investment from the Government.

Frontline Bikes is an initiative of Frontline Make Change, the charity that works with people suffering from drug or alcohol addiction in Dublin.

It is receiving the money under the Up-cycling of Bicycles and e-Bikes Pilot Initiative.

It is believed to be the largest investment in a social enterprise in the history of the State

The shop in Inchicore launched in October 2020 with the aim of providing employment for former addicts within a community setting.

A new 8,000sq.ft facility in Bluebell Industrial Estate includes a storage depot, a training facility and a showroom.

Frontline Bike's CEO, Stuart Fraser said: "Accessing employment can be very challenging for people recovering from addiction or time in prison.

"Employees at Frontline Bikes gain confidence and a work ethic that allows them to access mainstream employment or maintain employment with our social enterprise."

Gerard McBrearty is one of the mechanics at the shop.

He was involved with crime at a young age and has battled with addiction in the past.

Gerard McBrearty working at Frontline Bikes

"My story is unfortunately similar to many others, I found myself homeless at 15 years old, which lead to chronic drug addiction and lengthy prison time, " he said.

"My life now as a working, tax-paying, single dad is unimaginable compared to my previous one.

"Frontline Make Change has played such an important role in my recovery journey, also leading me to study addiction and becoming a trained Drug Practitioner.

"Working as a mechanic in Frontline Bikes provides an invaluable opportunity for guys like me to learn a practical, highly employable skill.''