Written answers
Tuesday, 21 March 2017
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Cycling Policy
John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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1207. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has examined international practice, specifically the Dutch model, whereby the majority of children, before they start secondary school are required to pass a cycling test and whereby motorists are also trained for interaction with cyclists as part of their driver training when applying and testing for a driving licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13413/17]
Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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In 2014 my Department engaged Cycling Ireland to develop a new national cycle training standard which would ensure a standardised level of cycle training around the country. The new standard, Cycle Right, launched in January 2017 will be rolled out this year to as many primary schools as funding allows. I am confident that this new cycle training, which is more in line with international best practice and includes an on-road element, will result, over time, in an increase in the number of children choosing to cycle to and from school. It is expected that 12,000 to 15,000 children will avail of the training in 2017. Cycling Ireland will administer and manage the Cycle Right scheme which is funded by my Department and the Road Safety Authority in addition to parental and local authority contributions.
Since 2011, learner drivers are required to take a 12-lesson programme of Essential Driver Training before taking the driving test. Among the topics which must be covered are potential risks associated with interacting with cyclists on the road.
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