News release from Cycling Advocates Network and BikeNZ
Politicians can no longer ignore cycle safety
Following recent cycling deaths, cyclists will rally at Parliament on Tuesday 15 April.
Cycling Advocates Network spokesman Patrick Morgan says many people are angry after the deaths.
Student nurse Sharla Haerewa was riding in a Christchurch cycle lane, had lights and high vis.
Teacher Jocelyn Goodwin was riding in a Palmerston North cycle lane on a training ride.
"Clearly we aren't doing enough to protect the 1.5 million New Zealanders who ride bikes," said Mr Morgan.
"We'll ask political parties to commit to taking quick action on the Cycling Safety Panel's report."
He says the Safety Panel will consider protected cycle lanes on busy roads, traffic calming, and effective education for all road users.
"Although the report is due in September we want to know what political parties think before the election."
Brian Broad, Interim CEO at BikeNZ, says even one cyclist death is one too many, and the tragic incidents of the last few weeks further highlight the need for immediate change.
"BikeNZ is committed to cycle safety, and strongly support CAN's memorial rides that are likewise committed to bringing about vital changes to infrastructure and road user behaviour."
He says cycling is on the rise in New Zealand, as both a sport and a cost-effective form of transport and recreation. Dedicated cycling infrastructure, along with education for motorists and cyclists, will help foster an improvement in understanding between road users, and create safer journeys for everyone.
Mr Morgan says, "Less than one percent of the transport budget is spent on cycling. That needs to change in order to protect people who cycle."
The Safety Panel meets on Tuesday in Wellington.
There are also rides and gatherings around New Zealand.
Updates at http://can.org.nz/memorial-ride and at #MemorialRide
Patrick Morgan
CAN - Cycling Advocates Network
Tel 027-563-4733