The freight industry has said the proposal to compel motorists to pass cyclists at 1.5 metres is not workable in Ireland. And it has “stressed” its point during a meeting with Minister for Transport Shane Ross.
Freight Transport Association says 1.5 metre proposal unenforceable
A representative groups for the freight transport industry has dismissed the mooted 1.5 safe passing law as “unenforceable”
Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) has made its feelings known to Minister for Transport Shane Ross.
The Minister has made it clear he too does not believe the mooted legislation is workable.
If enacted, as it has been in other countries, drivers would be required to pass cyclists at a safe distance.
Failure to do so would result in penalty points and fines.
The minimum passing distance would be 1.5 metres in speed zones above 50km and 1 metre in lower speed areas.
Advertisement
“Recently touted legislation that would require motorists to give cyclists at least 1.5m of space on roads whilst overtaking is non-enforceable,” said Aidan Flynn, general manager of FTAI.
He added he had “stressed this” in a recent meeting with Mr Ross.
Related News
It's very important that all cyclists use cycle lanes where they are provided & that these cycle lanes are not blocked. All road users play an important role in keeping our roads safe particularly for vulnerable road users. Respect #RoadSafety @RSAIreland @GardaTraffic https://t.co/GFOA78oRzC
— FTA Ireland (@newsfromftai) December 7, 2017
“Our members believe that the focus must be on education and awareness for both drivers and cyclists,” he continued. “And that includes periodically reviewing the ‘rules of the road’.
Every road user, whether under pedal or engine power, has a responsibility to educate themselves about the potential risks involved in travelling along Ireland’s road networks.
“The government has a key role to play in keeping all road users safe and compliant.
“And we believe that better education will help to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities experienced by vulnerable road users.
“During the winter months, vulnerable road users like cyclists are at an increased risk due to reduced visibility and lack of understanding of road conditions.
“New Years’ resolutions may encourage more people to adopt ‘pedal power’.
“But all road users must take ownership of their own safety to ensure that the worrying rise in cyclist deaths can be reversed.”
FTA Ireland covers all aspects of private and public freight transport, passenger transport and logistics supply chain, including road, rail, sea and air.
Topics
