Cork city's Lord Mayor defends Naked Bike Ride photo

Green Party councillor Dan Boyle, Lord Mayor of Cork, has responded to criticism of his decision to pose with a group of nude cyclists for a photo at City Hall.

Mr Boyle came under fire over the image which was taken on the steps outside the council building with more than 30 participants from the annual charity Naked Bike Ride.

The event, which has been taking place in Cork for 15 years, aims to raise awareness of the dangers cyclists face on the road, while also promoting body confidence and opposing fossil fuels.

In a letter issued to Mr Boyle by Independent Ireland city councillor Kenneth O’Flynn, the decision was described as one that undermines the “esteemed nature” of the position of Lord Mayor.

Mr O’Flynn urged Mr Boyle to reconsider his position in the council.

In response to Mr O’Flynn, Mr Boyle said: “The World Naked Bike Ride has taken place in Cork since 2009 and has been greeted on the steps of Cork City Hall by many previous Lord Mayors.

“I have been happy to do so again this year.

“I am particularly supportive of the underlying message of the Bike Ride, that the nakedness is a symbol of the fragility that many cyclists feel when competing for road space with much larger, more dangerous vehicles.

“Participants, to a greater or lesser extent, use body paint, but essentially make their statement through being naked.

“This greeting has been given happily and without controversy for many years. I am happy to have continued with this tradition,” he said.

Mr Boyle added that he was “surprised” that Mr O’Flynn was unaware of the event and he asked that they discuss the matter privately.

“It may be that you see a political advantage in highlighting something you have been very aware of and have chosen not to know about,” he said.

“I am quite happy to talk to you about these issues, but only in an atmosphere where cheap political points are not being sought.”

In his letter to Mr Boyle, Mr O’Flynn said: “I urge you to consider the potential implications of allowing such conduct to be associated with your role.

“The dissemination of these images on social media, without appropriate warnings for potential viewers, raises further concerns regarding the responsibilities of public figures,” he wrote.

“It is essential that we uphold the integrity and dignity of the office and work collectively toward fostering a climate of inclusivity and respect within our community.

“I hope you take these concerns to heart and choose a course of action that reflects the values we hold dear as Cork citizens.”