Mayo TD supports call to make wearing of helmets mandatory for cyclists

A Mayo TD has supported growing calls to make the use of cycle helmets mandatory in Ireland.

Deputy Alan Dillon said Australia was the first country to introduce legislation, followed by New Zealand and Argentina, and he wants to add Ireland to this list.

Speaking in Dàil Èireann, he stated: "We have excellent off-road cycling facilities in Mayo such as the Great Western Greenway connecting Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Achill.

"We also have the Monasteries of the Moy Greenway linking Ballina and Killala, and the Castlebar Greenway linking Raheens Woods trail and the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life in Turlough.

"However, not every county has the benefit of off-road cycle paths.

"Due to the recent Covid restrictions, more people have taken to cycling.

"I have been contacted by local bicycle shop owners, the Kilcourse family, Castlebar, highlighting the need to promote the wearing of cycle helmets and making it a mandatory legal requirement to do so.

"We have spoken much in recent months of effective public health policy.

"We also need to expand the conversation to include cycle helmets to reduce acquired head injuries.

"A similar argument can be made for introducing a mandatory need for helmets when using electric scooters.

"I will be raising this important topic again as soon as the new government is formed."