Drink and drug driving are massive problems across the country – but a Laois Councillor has detailed her encounters with drunk cyclists.
Sinn Fein Councillor Caroline Dwane-Stanley was speaking at a meeting of the Joint Policing Committee.
She said: “We are always warning about the dangers of drink driving, but I think we need to reinforce the message about drunk cycling.
“On two occasions in the past few months, myself and Brian (Stanley) have witnessed people who are ossified drunk while cycling on bicycles.
“Recently, there was a young lad who was absolutely plastered on his bike and went straight out across the road.
“He pulled himself back together and pulled into one of the estates but it was a deadly dangerous situation.
“So we really need to get the message out about sober cycling.”
Agreeing with Cllr Dwane-Stanley, Chief Superintendent Anthony Lonergan said that all incidents like these should be reported to Gardai.
On the issue of cyclists, Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley said there is an increasing amount of cyclists who are not wearing reflective gear and have no lights.
He said: “If there is an accident, it is unlikely the driver of a vehicle will be killed but a high chance that the cyclist will.
“I think some cyclists think that if they are on the road, everyone can see them but that is not the case.”
Deputy Stanley also raised the issue of scooters and their current presence on footpaths.
He said: “I know that legislation in this area is on the way but while we wait, we need to do more.
“We have to keep them off the paths. I am constantly receiving complaints from people in Portlaoise, Portarlington and Mountrath about this.
“They travel at high speeds and are deadly dangerous for pedestrians.”
In response, Chief Superintendent Anthony Lonergan said that the issue with cyclists is about changing their behaviour.
He said: “We encourage everyone to wear reflective gear and have lights while cycling.
“We will liaise with the RSA about getting a message out on this and we will make it a priority with members of the force in Laois.
“Sometimes a simple word can change things and that could be the right approach.”
SEE ALSO – Virgin Media cameras set for Laois this week as popular business to feature on Ireland AM
