Letter to Minister Varadkar from the ECF (today); see also Common Memorandum of cyclists’ user organisations
Re: Common Memorandum of cyclists’ user organisations on Irish, Lithuanian and Greek Trio Presidencies 2013 – 2014
Dear Minister, Dr. Varadkar,
This is a call to action from the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) and its full member in Ireland, Cyclist.ie. We’re requesting you to give cycling the attention it deserves during the forthcoming Trio Presidencies 2013 – 2014.
Urban cycling is seeing a revival in many towns and cities across Europe. As cyclist representative organisations, we are wholeheartedly rejoicing and supporting this evolution; more cycling means healthier people, less urban congestion, and urban environments that are attractive to citizens and investors alike.
The good news is that in times of tight public budgets, cycling offers the highest return of investment among all transport the different modes of transport.
Therefore, during the Trio Presidencies 2013 – 2014 you can do three concrete things to support cycling:
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Integrate EuroVelo, the European long-distance cycle route network, into the Trans-European Network – Transport (TEN-T) and increase future EU Cycling investments from EU regional and cohesion funds;
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Increase sustainability and safer cycling
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Make Heavy Goods Vehicles safer for cyclists by changing their future cab design and improve driver training.
Investing in safe and comfortable infrastructure and vehicles is the most effective way to increase levels of cycling across Europe.
We understand that in relation to Ireland, the car business spent approximately €21 M during 2010 (Nielsen Ratings) on promotion of car sales. Virtually nothing is spent on cycling promotion.
We thank you for your attention and political support.
We remain at your disposal should you have further questions.
Sincerely yours,
Manfred Neun
ECF President
Annex: ECF and Cyclist.ie Memorandum on Irish, Lithuanian and Greek Trio Presidencies 2013 – 2014