Last year 15 cyclists lost their lives on Irish roads, the most in a decade; 2017 turned out to be an annus horribilis for cyclists and their families. More than ever people are using their bicycles to go to work or for leisure. I am a very keen cyclist and cycle in here every day and I see that it is dangerous to cycle in the city.

The Minister's colleague tabled a Bill last year, the Road Traffic (Minimum Passing Distance of Cyclists) Bill 2017 of which I was quite sceptical at the start but on getting more information in recent months I think it is a Bill worth bringing forward to the next Stage. Any legislation that saves one cyclist's life in this country is worth debating.

I understand this is a Private Member's Bill. There is provision for Private Member's Bills being taken in this House and we are keen to encourage that. There has been some desire to evaluate its practicality and enforceability and it is reasonable that the House, whether through pre-legislative scrutiny or otherwise, would get information on the enforceability of such a measure and its practical effectiveness. We are open to such a process. The Bill has not been taken but if it were the Government would consider it with an open mind. Presumably, however, pre-legislative scrutiny would be required to ensure that it is workable.