Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for visiting and sharing the results of our research. While we are called the children's committee, it is quite rare that we engage with children. This means that we talk about children but not with children. It is important that the witnesses are with us. They can help us to understand why it is important that their voices are heard at this committee. All I have heard is common sense, which we do not always hear at this committee. I was impressed with all the work they did and with the results of their research. Last year, in advance of the Cork county development plan, I did a consultation with primary schools in my constituency, Cork South-West. I was blown away by their recommendations and sensible solutions to so many issues. They talked about many of the same issues that came up through the witnesses' research. They should not have to ask to be able to walk and cycle safely to school. I can understand why it is incredibly frustrating to campaign for years and not see any results. We know that feeling. It is exhausting.

I have some questions for whoever it would like to answer. Zena, Borys and Diana made a presentation on active travel that was useful. Students in Cork have also asked for safe routes so they can walk and cycle to school with their friends. Am I correct that there are a few cycle lanes in Carlow but that they are disconnected? The witnesses suggested practical solutions such as using the wide footpaths. Could they tell us more about that idea?