O’Mahony welcomes the development of Walking and Cycling routes in Mayo

MAYO Fine Gael TD, John O’Mahony, the party’s spokesman on Sport, has described the increased numbers participating in cycling and walking in the county as a move towards a healthier and more active society.

Deputy O’Mahony said the development of traffic free walking and cycling routes in the county has been a magnificent aid to people who want to get out and enjoy the fresh air.

“For most people, it’s about just getting out and enjoying the fresh air and the scenery. The development of routes such as the Great Western Greenway in Mulranny and Newport and the Railway Line walk in Westport have helped contribute to this upsurge in walking and cycling.

“We’re very fortunate here in Mayo to have so many wonderful walking routes and now more and more people are really starting to experience them more and more. There have not been too many positive spin offs from the recession but I think people have had more time to get out and about and enjoy what’s on their doorstep. A walk or a jog is free and it’s encouraging to see so many out and about.

“It’s also about sending out the right message to our children. There have been some alarming studies carried out on children and the findings on obesity in recent times. It won’t change overnight but if our young people see their parents and older members of their families out exercising then they will want to be involved also. Everyone will be a winner,” he said.