asked the Minister for the Environment the number of pedal cyclists killed in road accidents for each of the past ten years; and if any study has been carried out by either his or any other Department on the feasibility of introducing compulsory head protection for pedal cyclists.

The number of pedal cyclists killed in road accidents in each of the years 1978 to 1987 were as follows: 1978, 56; 1979, 50; 1980, 36; 1981, 49; 1982, 40; 1983, 46; 1984, 40; 1985, 39; 1986, 32; 1987, 37.

No study on the feasibility of introducing the mandatory wearing by pedal cyclists of head protection devices has been carried out by my Department. I am not aware of such a study having been carried out by any other Department. I do not propose to introduce such a measure at this time. The promotion of safe and responsible pedal cycling is an important element of the work of the National Safety Council.