Gardai spark criticism and debate after commenting on cyclist's clothing during stop

A TD and keen cyclist has hit out at a reference by gardaí to dark clothes worn by a cyclist, saying it leads to victimisation of cyclists. 

Galway based TD Ciaran Cannon said he was disappointed to see a social media post by gardaí comment on the cyclist's attire, with his own social media post receiving hundreds of comments. 

He stressed that there is no legal requirement to wear any particular type of clothing when cycling. 

"Making reference to clothing, creates confusion about the law and leads to victimisation of cyclists, often in court," Deputy Cannon said in his post.

The social media post sparked quite a debate with over 450 comments. 

Disappointing to see @GardaTraffic make reference to clothing here. There is no legal requirement to wear any particular kind of clothing when cycling. Making reference to clothing creates confusion about the law and leads to victimisation of cyclists, often in court. https://t.co/nIQEIHzVh5

— Ciaran Cannon (@ciarancannon) January 7, 2024

One person described Deputy Cannon's post as "a very unfortunate take".

"The guards mentioned clothing to emphasise how difficult the individual was to see, that they not only had no lights but they also had dark clothing on. They're purely trying to keep people safe - cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians alike," they said. 

Many people were in agreement that high viz clothing is advisable. 
 
"As a cyclist and a motorist I'm shocked at how many cyclists and walkers think wearing dark clothing can be "seen" at night. It can't. Country roads, no lighting.. It's a salutary bit of common sense," another posted.
 

While Deputy Cannon was disappointed with the reference to dark clothing, it is something which is highlighted by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). 

"When cycling, always make sure you give other road users the best chance of seeing you. Wear high visibility clothing and keep your bicycle lights in good working order," the RSA's outlines in advice to cyclists on its website.