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“Shock at death of Perth OAP who cycled every day“

(10 posts)
  • Started 5 years ago by chdot
  • Latest reply from toomanybikes

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  1. chdot
    Admin

    https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/shock-death-perth-oap-who-12886860.amp

    Over a week ago, but don’t think it’s been mentioned here.

    Someone local is thinking about placing a white bike.

    Don’t suppose there is anyone from Perth on CCE.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  2. Rosie
    Member

    Oh that's really sad. She seems to have been an excellent lady.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  3. gembo
    Member

    John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, said: “My thoughts are firstly with the friends and family of the victim.

    “I recognise that any form of transport involves a degree of risk, but it is important that steps are taken to minimise the frequency of tragedies like this occurring.”

    Posted 5 years ago #
  4. neddie
    Member

    "any form of transport involves a degree of risk"

    A disingenuous and inappropriate statement. A bit like saying, "ah well, that's what happens"

    What is the risk of flying, going by ferry or train, or walking in a park?

    Orders of magnitude lower than the risks created by driving.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  5. remberbuck
    Member

    No.

    It is a completely correct and proper use of the concept of risk, as you would expect from an actuary. I find it unfortunate to have been "interpreted" as you have.

    To answer the implication of insincerity in your comment, Mr Swinney's letter to the Council's Executive Director of Housing and Environmental Services 0f 11 July makes clear "our responsibility as public servants to mitigate such risks".

    Further, "i am very keen to hear of any plans Perth and Kinross Council are currently undertaking to improve cyclist safety acoss the region, and particularly within Perth city" ...

    "I would therefore urge all stakeholders to engage in a period of reflection and subsequent action over what steps can be taken to ensure this tragedy is not repeated."

    A different letter, but of similar sentiment, was sent by Pete Wishart, the constituent MP, on the same date to the Executive Director. As he notes:

    "Sadly I don't have any direct control over local road safety but I will ensure that I do everything I can to put pressure on those who do".

    To those who know of such things, these are strong words and sentiments between MSPs, MPs and a local authority.

    I know the Lowden family, and that they are grateful for John Swinney's thoughts.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  6. minus six
    Member

    @remberbuck

    irrespective of any of the indisputably fine words from mr swinney

    I recognise that any form of transport involves a degree of risk

    is a disgraceful comment, quite frankly

    have a word with yourself

    Posted 5 years ago #
  7. Murun Buchstansangur
    Member

    I don't believe John Swinney actually is an actuary, maybe just comports himself as one.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  8. Stickman
    Member

    @Murun: I know for a fact he isn't.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  9. I were right about that saddle
    Member

    Mr Swinney isn't an actuary. He did work in Strategy for Scottish Amicable.

    Posted 5 years ago #
  10. toomanybikes
    Member

    "I recognise that any form of transport involves a degree of risk"

    Seems a totally reasonable preface to saying "but the risk is (far) higher than it should be in this instance and therefore we need to take action " which he half implies.

    Can't get risk down to 0.00000000000000000000000 for any kind of transport, therefore not every incident is informative. I fell off for absolutely no reason in the rain once when not paying great attention. If I'd somehow cracked my head open in that instance, it shouldn't have been a call for action.

    Posted 5 years ago #

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