Cycling conditions for Dubliners must improve as it becomes increasingly popular mode of travel
Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD has said that in light of the forthcoming expansion of Dublin Bikes, more needs to be done to ensure the safety of cyclists using roads in and around the Capital. It was announced earlier this month that the Dublin Bikes scheme is set to expand with 15 new docking stations, 13 of which are in Dublin 7 and the north inner city. The stations which will facilitate the addition of at least 100 new bicycles are expected to come into service this April.
The Dublin South West TD commented, “As cycling continues to increase in popularity as a means of commuting around the city it should not just be seen as an affordable and accessible way of travelling, but as a safe alternative too. “Worryingly, the situation for cyclists in Dublin continues to deteriorate and their safety is becoming increasingly threatened. Every year a high number of cyclists are left injured and even hospitalised following road accidents in the city.
“The Dublin Bikes expansion further highlights the importance of promoting pedestrian and cyclist safety, particularly as Government continue to ignore a UN recommendation to allocate 20% of a national transport budget to cycling. “Parts of the city have treacherous road surfaces that require greater investment from local authorities.
“In order to ensure ongoing quality improvements to cycle lanes and road verges, Fianna Fáil has consistently proposed to put in place a funding scheme which earmarks a portion of the Local Government Fund. “The Minister will have been aware of this expansion for some time and so it beggars belief as to why separate, dedicated cycle lanes are yet to be adopted and developed to enhance road safety.
“As the bikes scheme expands and more cyclists take to our streets, we must all be more conscious of sharing the Capital’s roads with novice and commuter cyclists. Our transport culture in Dublin needs to change and establishing a mutual respect between all road users must be strongly endorsed,” concluded Deputy Lahart.
