Kennedy launches International Walk to School Month

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy is urging students in Northern Ireland to take part in International Walk to School Month 2011, this October.
~ Monday, 3 October 2011

Millions of young walkers from over 40 countries across the world will be taking part in global events and enjoying the benefits of walking.

The Minister marked the launch of Walk to School Month 2011 at a special ceremony at St Mary’s on the Hill Primary School, Glengormley and said:”International Walk to School Month is designed to give children, parents and school teachers an opportunity to be part of a global event that celebrates the many benefits of walking. I would urge all schools here to take to their feet during October to experience first-hand the benefits of walking.

“This initiative is designed to inspire and drive change in travel habits from a young age. It’s a flexible initiative, meaning schools can decide how much or how little they do to get involved. It can be a sustained effort throughout the month, a special walking week or even just a walk to school day – every effort countsn the pursuit of a more ‘walkable’ world.”

International Walk to School Month is organised by the Department for Regional Development’s TravelwiseNI team.

During today’s event students were also praised for their commitment to other Travelwise NI’s walking initiatives, namely Walk to School Week 2011 which this year took place in May.

Danny Kennedy said: “I want to congratulate pupils, parents and teachers from St Mary’s on the Hill for their great efforts, enthusiasm and commitment to the Walk to School Week initiative, held by my Department’s Travelwise team, earlier this year. 159 pupils with their parents walked to school totalling a walking distance of over one million metres!

“Pupils at St Mary’s, who are the winners of Walk to School 2011, showed an excellent understanding of the role sustainable travel can play in promoting good health and wellbeing while protecting the environment for future generations. ”

International Walk to School Month 2011 will be taking place during the month of October. Schools can register to participate at: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/travelwiseni

Notes to editors:

1. All media queries to Department for Regional Development Tel 028 90 540 372. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
2. Travelwise is a branch within the Department for Regional Development and is dedicated to promoting the use of sustainable modes of transport such as car sharing, walking, cycling and public transport to audiences including employers, commuters and schools throughout Northern Ireland. For further information log on to: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/travelwiseni