asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of the tendency over the period 1966 to 1974 of motor cycling fatalities to increase despite a downward trend in registrations, he will request An Foras Forbartha to produce a road management feasibility study with the object of providing plans for the segregation of cyclists, moped riders and motor cyclists from other vehicles on all roadways.

A separate analysis of motor cycle accidents is not available in my Department in respect of the period prior to 1968. Statistics for the period 1968 to 1975 indicate that, while the percentage of motor cycle accidents as a percentage of motor cycles licensed fell from 3 per cent to 2.5 per cent, the corresponding figures for fatalities rose from 0.1 per cent to 0.16 per cent. The majority of these fatalities occurred outside built-up areas. A study undertaken by An Foras Forbartha in 1975 in relation to pedal cycles indicated that there are considerable problems involved in the use of special cycle lanes. In all the circumstances, I do not think it appropriate to seek a further report as suggested by the Deputy. I will send him a copy of the 1975 report for his information.

As the question of compulsory wearing of car seat belts has been raised, can the Minister outline the position in regard to the introduction of legislation relating to the compulsory wearing of crash helmets for motor cyclists?

I did not refer to seat belts.

I know that but I am relating one to the other.

The question seems to deal with motor cycles.

Having regard to the Minister's recent statement on car safety belts, I wonder would he make a similar statement on crash helmets.

That seems to be a separate question, Deputy.

Some weeks ago I answered Deputy Timmons in relation to that matter. There were more fatalities among those wearing helmets than among those not wearing helmets. Perhaps they thought they were less likely to have an accident if they were wearing a helmet. It seems to be an extraordinary statistic.