As a motorcyclist, I've experienced first-hand the lack of recognition of our needs by both the Northern Ireland Assembly and the NI Department for Infrastructure. Despite being the most vulnerable road user group, our safety needs and concerns are neglected. All motorcyclists encounter risks on the roads that other road users don't experience, especially with our roads being so poorly maintained. 

There is an urgent need for our officials and elected representatives to step up and take tangible action to enhance our safety and wellbeing. 

Over many years, Motorcycle Action Group UK (MAG) Northern Ireland Region has campaigned and lobbied the NI authorities on the rights and needs of motorcyclists. In the most recent Road Safety Review consultation, we fully participated in the process to help officials and politicians understand our perspective on such issues. We submitted detailed and reasonable proposals for actions that would enhance motorcyclists safety at no detriment to any other road user. Actions such as:

• Improved road maintenance that takes motorcyclists fully into account and adopt the philosophy that if a road surface is safe for two wheels it's safe for all. The depth of a defect isn't the only important factor, the position of a defect affects riders much more than cars. MAFG believes failing to take this into account amounts to failing to take motorcyclists safety into account
• Stop using loose chippings as a road surface dressing. This can be lethal to motorcyclists!
• Introduce non-slip surfaces & road markings
• Improve roadside infrastructure by fitting motorcycle-friendly protection to roadside barriers, using frangible signposts etc
• Adjust Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) by introducing a realistic swerve exercise
• Establish motorcycle awareness in secondary schools and FE colleges
• An awareness campaign on Bus Lane Access. Since 2008 motorcyclists have had universal access to bus lanes to improve safety but we need to make riders aware of this right
• improved and more widespread public awareness camopaigns
• Establish an Enhanced Rider Training Scheme similar to what is available in GB, structured, subsidised, properly run and prioperly funded which over time will progressively improve safety for motorcyclists and the whiole road safety environment

However, we have been ignored, repeatedly, though the DfI has recently restored funding for the GCSE in automotive studies which includes aspects of motorcycling.

Motorcyclists feel disdained, ignored, betrayed and devalued by Officialdom. But Motorcyclists are People, Not Problems to be Ignored!

We ask the Northern Ireland Assembly and the NI Department for Infrastructure to enact positive measures aimed at improving life for Northern Ireland's motorcyclists.

Additionally MAG wants motorcycling included as part of a sustainable transport policy. Motorcycles are a low-impact, low-polluting, efficient, effective, congestion-beating and enjoyable form of economical personal transport and fit perfectly where journeys by public transport, walking or cycling are not possible or appropriate. Motorcycles can be part of the solution, they are not part of the problem.

By signing this petition, you are not just supporting a cause; you're flipping the narrative for countless motorcyclists. Together, we can raise our voices and demand proper recognition of the needs and concerns of motorcyclists. Please sign this petition today.