Vol. 496 No. 3
366 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the gardaí will prevent cyclists cycling on footpaths, particularly near the junction of Malahide Road and Griffith Avenue, Dublin 3, in view of the fact that this constitutes a danger to blind people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22502/98]
I have been assured by the Garda authorities that where incidents of cycling on footpaths are detected they are dealt with by way of prosecution or caution. In addition, the gardaí avail of the opportunity to visit schools, youth clubs and community centres to promote greater awareness among young people of the dangers posed to pedestrians, particularly the elderly and children, caused by cycling on footpaths.
With regard to the particular area referred to by the Deputy, I am informed by the Garda authorities that following complaints from members of the public in the area, the gardaí took appropriate action and they are continuing to monitor the situation. I understand that a cycle lane is being installed on the Malahide Road on both sides of the Griffith Avenue junction. It is being completed in conjunction with the quality bus corridor. The gardaí expect that the cycle lane will lead to a reduction in incidents of cycling on the footpath in the area.
