AQW 25753/11-15

Mr Gregory Campbell
Democratic Unionist Party
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 16/09/2013
Answered On Date: 02/10/2013
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development how many staff will be employed in his Department's cycling unit.

Answer:

As the Member will be aware, I have recently instructed officials in my Department to give increased and focussed priority to the needs of cyclists, to encourage greater participation in this healthy and sustainable form of transport. I have also asked for a new cycling unit to be established, to ensure the effective progress of a range of cycling initiatives.

At present, cycling issues are dealt with in different parts of my Department. Senior officials are now considering how the new cycling unit could ensure all cycling issues are progressed in a more coherent and coordinated manner and are given an increased focus and priority.

I have asked for this consideration to be completed as a matter of urgency, so I can then consider what additional staff resources need to be allocated to the new unit.