SEAN MAY,
Madam, - On New Year's Day I had the great misfortune to have my bicycle stolen in Dublin city centre.
As if it wasn't bad enough that I had used the Christmas bonus from my social welfare allowance to purchase the bicycle, the fact that I am on such a low income means it will now be several months before I am in a position to replace it. I reported the theft to the Garda and, while the officer in question was very sympathetic to my situation, he told me what I suspected myself: that the chances of recovering my bike were slim to none.
What I should like to know is: where are the city authorities in all of this? Walk around any street in this city and you cannot help noticing the numerous bicycle locks and chains dangling from lamp-posts and bicycle racks, as well as the skeletal remains of bicycles vandalised beyond repair. Why are there not secure, 24-hour parking facilities provided for cyclists in this city in the same way as motorists are looked after? - Yours, etc.,
SEAN MAY,
Rialto Cottages,
Rialto Street,
Dublin 8.