Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

A discussion took place on Committee Stage, which was prompted by Senator Donohoe's proposed amendment highlighting the importance of cycling and walking in the wider transport context. On that occasion, Senator Donohoe suggested that the Bill, as initiated, may have treated cyclists and walkers as being of secondary concern. That was certainly not the intention. The provisions regarding cycling and walking are included at several different points in the Bill. However, the Minister, Deputy Dempsey, agreed that a higher level of prominence should be given to the matter and this amendment achieves that. As it addresses the concerns raised by Senators Donohoe and Fitzgerald, I ask them to withdraw their amendment.