AQW 25680/11-15

Mr Daithí McKay
Sinn Féin
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 13/09/2013
Answered On Date: 30/09/2013
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development what plans his Department has to produce a cycle safety strategy.

Answer:

Road Safety is primarily a matter for the Department of the Environment and that Department already has a Road Safety Strategy, which includes issues relating to cycling. My Department works closely with the Department of the Environment on matters of road safety, including in the Delivery Board for the Road Safety Strategy and on a number of joint activities such as the development of the Cycling Skills and Cycling Safety leaflet.

I am, however, aware that cyclists are particularly vulnerable road users and that their safety needs to be treated as a high priority. I am also aware that the perception of danger is a key factor that discourages greater use of cycling, as a mode of transport. I have therefore asked my officials to ensure the new cycling unit, which is being established in my Department, ensures greater priority and increased focus is given to safety issues, relating to cycling.