The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) discusses wire rope barriers with Northern Ireland’s Minister for Infrastructure. The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is reviewing wire rope style barriers.
MAG’s Northern Ireland Rep, Martyn Boyd, and Director, Ian Churchlow, met Minister for Infrastructure, Nichola Mallon, on 14 December 2020 to explain MAG’s concerns about the use of wire rope barriers on trunk roads in Northern Ireland.
Martyn Boyd said the meeting – where the Minister gave an update on the DfI’s current review – was warm and positive. The DfI are considering options for safer barriers.
Because of the particular danger that they pose to motorcyclists, MAG wants the use of this style of barrier to end so Martyn and Ian are working constructively with the DfI in Northern Ireland to achieve this goal.
Martyn Boyd commented:
“I found the meeting positive and proactive, and The Minister and officials gave fair consideration to our concerns and suggestions. I thank Minister Mallon for granting this meeting and look forward to further constructive dialogue with her Department. This is another step forward on the path to improved road safety.”
Minister Mallon said:
“I’m committed to improving safety on our road network for all road users, and this review addresses a long-standing issue impacting a vulnerable road user group.”
The DfI will schedule another meeting with MAG for early 2021, which will allow further discussion on any recommendations coming from the review. Additionally, Minister Mallon invited MAG to input to the upcoming Northern Ireland Road Safety Review.