Sir, - The latest killing of a cyclist on Dublin's quays by a HGV demands action by the authorities. During the period 1996-2001,75 per cent of cycle fatalities within the Dublin area have involved HGVs. While the ultimate solution to this problem will be the banning of HGVs from the city centre, the Dublin Cycling Campaign is not simply prepared to wait until 2004/2005 for the Port Tunnel before action is taken. In the interim we request that:
(1) Restrictions on the time of day that HGVs can pass along the quays: i.e. outside rush hours 7.00-10.00; 16.00-19.00. Most cyclists commute during these hours so less conflicts will arise. While this may cause inconvenience to deliveries, inconvenience is far preferable to further deaths of cyclists;
(2) Restrictions on certain routes and manoeuvres. e.g. banning the left turn from Westmoreland Street to Aston Quay;
(3) Restrictions on speed - a 20 m.p.h. limit along quays. The DoE still hasn't brought in the required regulations/legislation for 20 m.p.h. zones;
(4) Rigorous enforcement of existing traffic laws and the introduction of speed cameras throughout the quays;
(5) Closed side protection along the side of HGV to prevent cyclists being sucked in under HGV;
(6) A continuous bus/cycle from city centre to Heuston Station and speedily implementation of the planned city centre network.
Ultimately if the Government and Dublin Corporation are serious about promoting sustainable transport they must tackle the issue of road safety rather than allow the slaughter on the quays to continue. - Yours, etc.,
David Maher, Dublin Cycling Campaign, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.