Sir, - Having returned, sunburnt, from a seven-day trip by bicycle in Finland, I have to smile at the pathetic attempts being made by Irish local authorities to provide cycle paths.
In Finland each town has cycle paths at the side of the streets and roads, or provision on the footpaths for the cyclist with yield/ stop signs and traffic lights all giving priority to the two-wheeled mode of transport. It was possible to cycle the 16 kilometres from Helsinki airport to the city centre by cycle path and other main roads provide the same facility.
All paths are clean and well sign-posted and cycle traffic was extensive, proving that if proper facilities are provided and maintained, they will be used. Each area has multi-cycle parking sections which are usually full and Finnish drivers treat the cyclists very courteously.
So, for a small outlay we could provide a pollution-free environment, less traffic congestion and more health benefits. However, I doubt the authorities will get around to it, despite their promises. - Yours, etc., Ian Gallahar
Clonmel Road, Dublin 11.