Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In 2017, one in every ten road traffic fatalities was a cyclist. Last year, it was reduced to nine people who were killed cycling. This year, so far, the figure is nine again. It is a serious issue when a much higher percentage of cyclists are injured and killed than other road users. The witnesses’ points are well made and well taken.

The second half of our meeting will involve the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the NTA. I want to see a consensus for change and all agencies working together. Obviously, education and awareness are important. Being able to see cyclists is important too. Quite often, when I drive home at night, I cannot see cyclists as, unfortunately, some of them wear dark clothes and come at one out of the blue at junctions. There is an issue about visibility, awareness, better lighting and safer intersections.

I will allow Senator Mark Daly to ask the first question as he has another urgent meeting to attend.