Madam, - I refer to an article in today's Irish Times(May 1st) concerning a recent survey on traffic in our capital city.
Regrettably the survey reveals that the number of cyclists entering the city during rush hour has dropped by 14 per cent since 1997. This is not surprising as cycling in Dublin traffic is dangerous, as there are so few cycle lanes. It is also obvious to all potential cyclists that many of our urban roads are uneven and often pot-holed in places.
Irish society is experiencing increasing levels of obesity year on year. This is a serious health issue for our society. Regular exercise is a major contributory factor to reducing excess body weight.
Cycling is enjoyable, beneficial and environmentally friendly - so we should be investing heavily in safe cycle lanes throughout our towns and cities and encouraging significant numbers to cycle - especially in the beautiful spring sunshine. - Yours, etc,
MICHAEL O'SHEA, Chief Executive, Irish Heart Foundation, Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.