Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:44 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment if he has any plans to promote the greater use of bicycles as a form of individual transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Use of Bicycles.
The needs of cyclists are being fully considered in the formulation of road development policy. Under section 65 of the Roads Bill, 1991, which is currently before the House, local authorities will be able to construct or provide cycleways reserved for the exclusive use of cyclists, or for pedestrians and cyclists. This power will be in addition to the existing provisions in the Road Traffic Acts dealing with cycle priority measures on public roads.
The terms of reference for Phase 2 of the Dublin Transportation Initiative, which is at present underway, make explicit provision for the consideration of all transport modes, including cycling. To this end, a programme of surveys is being undertaken in which up to 10,000 cyclists are being invited to respond to a detailed questionnaire. The survey results will be used to ensure that the needs of cyclists are considered explicitly when developing future transportation strategies for the Greater Dublin Area.