A new initiative is set to make wearing cycle helmets compulsory for children aged up to 13-years-old.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is looking to make head protection a must, with parents of youngsters who flout the law issued with a fine, the Irish Independent reports.

"We are actively considering whether there is now a safety case for introducing mandatory cycle helmets for children up to 13 years," RSA chief executive Noel Brett said.

In addition, bike safety training for seven and eight-year-olds will be rolled out in all schools nationwide as a new addition to the curriculum.

The proposal is expected to cause widespread debate, with supporters arguing it will help save lives, as wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85 per cent.

PR and fundraising manager at the Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust Mandy Woodward recently claimed headgear is a must for children as it can reduce the chance of serious brain trauma if they are involved in an accident.

Written by Donal Walsh

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