Trevor Sargent
Question:292 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the failure of the Garda to enforce road traffic laws for cyclists in Dublin city and county. [28197/03]
Written Answers. - Road Traffic Offences.
The Garda authorities are aware of the problems and dangers associated with cyclists breaking the road traffic law. In the period from 1 January to 21 November ten cyclists have died on our roads, representing 3.2% of the total number killed in road accidents. The problems associated with cyclists have been identified and discussed at senior Garda level with a view to putting measures in place to deal effectively with such breaches. Garda chief superintendents regularly issue directions to their personnel stressing the necessity for members of the force to adopt a stringent and proactive approach when dealing with infringements by cyclists.
At present the Department of Transport is preparing a revised road safety strategy. It is anticipated that measures specifically aimed at preventing breaches of the road traffic laws by cyclists will form part of the new strategy.