We want parents to be able to cycle to school with their children

In response to a letter from John Leahy recently carried by you in respect of cycling on footpaths (Letters, 21 July), it is worth noting that in extending the Fixed Charge Notice (FCN) system to cyclists no new traffic offences were introduced.

All seven of the 36 existing offences which are being brought under the FCN system, are already offences under road traffic legislation. Those offences which are not being brought under the FCN system (including cycling on a footpath) remain subject to a straight to court summons.

Minister Paschal Donohoe consulted with the Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána in introducing this initiative, the aim of which is to promote safe cycling practices and to reinforce the message that cyclists also have a responsibility to obey road traffic law.