64 Mr. G. Brady asked the Minister for the Environment the approximate number of pedal bicycle accidents in Dublin per annum; in view of the evidence available indicating the risks for cyclists, particularly in high traffic areas, if he will consider the introduction on a phased-in basis of the compulsory use of helmets to protect cyclists, as is the case in other countries.

Statistics are not available in the form requested by the Deputy. However, the number of fatal and injury accidents in which pedal cycles were involved in Dublin City and the Dún Laoghaire Borough area in the years 1985-87 are as follows: 1985, 206; 1986, 208 and 1987, 230.

I do not propose to provide for the mandatory wearing of helmets by pedal cyclists. However, the next edition of the Rules of the Road, which is currently being prepared, will draw attention to the safety benefits of the voluntary wearing of protective head gear by pedal cyclists.