AQW 6135/17-22

Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 01/09/2020
Answered On Date: 16/09/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she intends to review the legal position concerning party bicycles used by groups of cyclists

Answer:

I am aware that these party bicycles have been in operation in Belfast and other jurisdictions for some time. However, as these vehicles are not motorised and are deemed to be bicycles, my Department does not have the powers to legislate for them. As the vehicle is controlled and steered by a person who is not drinking alcohol, there is no breach of the rules about drinking and being in control of a cycle, as defined in The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995. Additionally my Department does not have any vires in relation to drinking in public places.

I am therefore not in a position to review the legal position around these vehicles.