Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 July 2004
82 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport the steps he intends to take to improve the safety of cyclists using the road system; his views on the belief of the National Safety Council that children under 12 should not be allowed to cycle in any sort of traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20414/04]
View answerA design manual for cycle facilities entitled, Provision of Cycle Facilities — National Manual for Urban Areas, was published in March 1998 by the Dublin Transportation Office, DTO, in association with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The manual comprises a comprehensive set of guidelines for the design and provision of cycle facilities and is intended to be of assistance to local authorities in ensuring that such facilities are provided to a uniform and high standard.
The safety of cyclists was one of the principle considerations behind the development of the cycle facilities design manual and the regulations covering the use of such facilities. To this end, international practice as applied in the Netherlands and the UK was brought to bear on these developments. This 1998 manual is currently being reviewed by the DTO and the review is expected to be finalised later this year.
The National Safety Council is mandated with responsibility for road safety advertising and education. In carrying out its mandate, the council advises other road users to be aware of their responsibilities with regard to other road users such as cyclists. I understand that the most recent advise issued by the NSC to cyclists is set out in a leaflet entitled, Cycle Safety, and I will forward a copy to the Deputy.
Ultimately, parents should decide whether their child is fit to cycle on public roads. When doing so the parents should be confident that their child possesses the appropriate skills and training so that their child understands and is protected against potential hazards.
