Government Submissions

Irish Cycling Campaign Submission

Irish Cycling Campaign Delegation for Meeting with Minister Cullen on Wed 14/12/2005, 3pm - at The Department of Transport, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2.

AGENDA

1. Introductions

  • Who we are and who we represent;
  • The purpose of the Meeting:
    • The Importance / Role of Cycling in Transport Planning;
    • The Promotion of Cycling - Transport, Health and Environmental Benefits;
    • Summary of Main Concerns;

2. Road Safety

The absence of a credible road safety policy is the key factor suppressing cycling numbers in Ireland.

2a. Enforcement

  • The need for a comprehensive system of speed enforcement in urban areas
  • The need for the introduction of random breath testing within next 12 months
  • On-the-spot fines for traffic infringements (including Cyclists failing to show lights etc.)

2b. Policy

  • Widespread use of 30 kph limits in urban areas. Guidelines should be less restrictive.
  • HGV's. Severe restrictions needed on designated streets especially during school hours; Blind spots mirrors.

3. Road Design Standards & Legislation [Mainly Shane?]

  • Immediate revocation of compulsory cycle-track use regulations
  • Integration cycling into traffic - no more dreadful cycle tracks up on footpaths
  • National program of remedial works to identify, and modify or remove, substandard cycle-tracks (and other proven hazards).
  • End of the use of DTO's 'Cycling design manual' as national document & withdraw from circulation
  • Remove role of DTO as the body advising on national guidelines/policy
  • All roads and traffic management schemes must be designed with cyclists in mind. Most road engineers have no training or experience in this area. Therefore schemes must be audited at design stage for cycle safety, as in Cork.

4. Cycling on a National level - Policy and Representation.

4a. Representation

  • A commuter cyclist representative on the new Road Safety Council
  • A commuter cyclist representative on all DoT/NRA traffic committees e.g. Clare Street

4b. Creation of National Cycling Strategy

  • Indicators & Targets & Monitoring
  • Integration of cycling with Public transport
  • Economic incentives - mileage allowances etc