Less stress for all is one of the benefits Iompar Mhaigh Eo cites as possible if a more sustainable transport system is introduced in Mayo. Health and economic benefits as well as an increasing community spirit, resource conservation, and global warming mitigation are all documented benefits of an integrated and sustainable transport system, and Iompar Mhaigh Eo is working towards seeing these benefits in Mayo.
Lobbying for safe cycle and pedestrian paths, better public transport services, and for the rules of the road to be adapted to consider non car users, as well as hosting awareness raising events for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and the community are just some of the objectives of the Mayo Sustainable Transport campaign.
“Cycling is dangerous on some Mayo roads and one of the aims of Iompar Mhaigh Eo is to make it safe enough so that children, such as mine, that live in close proximity to their school will be able to cycle to school safely,” said Fergus McAllister of Iompar Chathair na Mart.
Iompar Mhaigh Eo is divided into active branches around the county with European mobility week from September 16 - 22 being the main focus of the groups this summer. The overall aim of the European Mobility Week campaign is to encourage public awareness of the need to act against pollution caused by the increase in motorised traffic in the urban environment. In fact, it is not just a question of fighting atmospheric pollution or noise but also of improving the quality of urban life.
Minister for Transport, Noel Dempsey said in a letter of support written to Iompar Mhaigh Eo: “My Department will work closely with local authorities but I also see the great value in local groups forming to move the agenda forward. So, I am delighted that Iompar Mhaigh Eo has been established. I think you have a wonderful opportunity to work with the county council to achieve your aims.”
The Castlebar Town Council has adopted a policy to participate in the European Mobility Week and Iompar Mhaigh Eo will be campaigning in towns all over Mayo to get involved and work towards a less stressful life for all.
The next meeting of Iompar Mhaigh Eo will be on July 21 in the Clew Bay Hotel, Westport at 8pm and will be focusing on mobility week.
