Catherine Conlon: Government needs to walk the walk on pedestrian-friendly cities 

There has been a lack of ambition in cities and towns across the country to improve walkability despite the myriad proven health benefits, writes Catherine Conlon

Research shows making neighbourhoods more walkable increases the number of people who shop there, with pedestrians spending as much as 65% more than drivers.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has signalled his intention to "take ownership of the big issues", as he uses the Taoiseach’s office to oversee the implementation of the Climate Action Plan. 

In terms of transport, the sector is going to have to be transformed to meet its target of a 45% reduction in emissions by 2030, and active travel is going to have to play a large part of that transformation.