Vol. 402 No. 5
140 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment if, having regard to the fact that 57 pedal cycle users were killed and 678 injured in 1988 and given that only two companies sell bicyles with lights and reflectors as standards fittings, he will outline any plans he has to improve the situation now that Christmas is approaching when there is a huge increase in bicycles sales.
142 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for the Environment if, in view of the widespread neglect in having proper front and rear lighting on bicycles, he will consider the introduction of regulations making it mandatory on bicycle manufacturers distributing in the State to have permanent and fixed lighting on bicycles; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 142 together.
I intend to write to the known bicycle distributors in this country about the manufacture and importation of bicycles which are not fitted with front and rear lamps, (or lampholders), as standard equipment. I would hope that the distributors would agree to supply the equipment necessary to enable cyclists to comply with the requirements of the Road Traffic Regulations on the lighting of bicycles.
If the problem cannot be resolved on a voluntary basis, I will consider the making of regulations to require bicycles — particularly those for older children and adults — to be supplied fitted with lamps.
In the meantime, I would urge the general public to purchase only new bicycles, intended for older children and adults, which are fitted, or can be fitted, with lamps.
