Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has invited MLAs to try out the recently introduced Belfast Bikes at Parliament Buildings, Belfast on Monday 15 June, as he launched the start of over a week of cycling activities across Northern Ireland.
The Belfast Bikes cycle ride marked the start of Bike Week, which runs until the 21 June 2015. The activities are part of National Bike Week which takes place across the UK and Republic of Ireland.
The Minister congratulated all the MLAs who took to the saddle to take part in the event. “It is great to see MLAs showing their support for the initiative which is designed to encourage the public to get on their bikes to enjoy all the health, financial and environmental benefits associated with cycling.
“Whilst today’s event is intended to be light-hearted, there are serious issues we all need to consider when it comes to the use of sustainable transport. Cycling is inexpensive, healthy and environmentally friendly. With over 1300 kilometres of National Cycle Network cycle lanes and paths all over Northern Ireland cycling can be enjoyed by everyone, whether it be a family bike ride, a journey to work or school or even as an opportunity to get some exercise.
“Hopefully the politicians at Stormont today can help encourage the public to incorporate more sustainable modes of transport into their daily lives. This year MLAs will be using the recently launched Belfast Bikes which can be seen around the city and are strongly encouraging the Belfast public to do likewise.”
Bike Week 13 – 21 June 2015 http://t.co/Z64kNl4PZd pic.twitter.com/DQ4AoZpViD
— Love Belfast ❤️ (@love_belfast) June 11, 2015
Danny Kennedy said: “We are keen to encourage the Northern Ireland public to leave their cars at home and try out cycling as a low-cost, easy and flexible way to travel. Bike Week offers an opportunity for cyclists of all abilities to get involved in a wide range of events.
“Not only is cycling good for you, good for the environment and even good for the bank balance it’s quick, easy and most of all it’s fun. I would like to commend all the external organisations involved in arranging events from community groups and schools to businesses and councils which will help make Bike Week bigger and better than ever, and I would encourage everyone to get involved to experience first-hand the benefits of cycling.”
Local councils, employers, schools and cycling organisations have organised a wide variety of cycling events for public participation. Details of the events can be found at: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/bike-week-13-to-21-june or facebook.com/Travelwiseni
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