The number of fines issued to cyclists in the first two months of the new scheme is much lower than many would have expected.
The first set of figures for the number of on the spot fines issued to cyclists since the new scheme began in the Republic reveal relatively few offenders have been punished.
The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has said 244 fixed charge notices (FCNs) were issued in August and September, the first two months of the scheme.
The breakdown of offence types shows most cyclists fined we caught jumping traffic lights. The numbers are as follows.
- Cyclists break red traffic lights - 144 cases.
- No front lamp or rear lamp lit during lighting-up hours – 44 offences.
- Cyclist driving a pedal cycle without reasonable consideration – 37 offences.
- Cyclist proceeding into a pedestrianised street or area -19 offences.
The rate of fines being issued, at a total of 244, equated to four cases per day nationally, much lower than many would have expected.
However, the publicity around the launch of the scheme has perhaps resulted in some cyclists changing their behaviour.
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And it is possible as the scheme proceeds, the number of fines will increase.
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe TD said he was not surprised the breach of law most frequently detected was breaking red lights.
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“Last year, 13 cyclists were killed in Ireland. I want to see that number reduced and a greater emphasis put on cycling road safety," he said.
“The majority of cyclists obey the rules of the road when out on their bikes, however, there are some who put themselves and others at risk by disregarding the law.
“By allowing for fines for cyclists to be issued in place of direct summonses to Court, Court time is also freed up and a more immediate enforcement tool provided to An Garda Síochána.”
€40 fine for following offences:
• Cyclist driving a pedal cycle without reasonable consideration – €40
• No front lamp or rear lamp lit during lighting-up hours on a pedal cycle – €40
• Cyclist proceeding into a pedestrianised street or area – €40
• Cyclist proceeding past traffic lights when the red lamp is illuminated – €40
• Cyclist proceeding past cycle traffic lights when red lamp is lit – €40
• Cyclist failing to stop for a School Warden sign – €40
• Cyclist proceeding beyond a stop line, barrier or half barrier at a railway level crossing, swing bridge or lifting bridge, when the red lamps are flashing – €40
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