The remit of the Institute of Public Health in Ireland (IPH) is to promote cooperation for public health between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the areas of research and information, capacity building and policy advice. Our approach is to support Departments of Health and their agencies in both jurisdictions, and maximise the benefits of all-island cooperation to achieve practical benefits for people in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. 

IPH has been actively engaged in research and policy development relating to the interface between health, travel and the built environment. IPH published a review of the Health Impacts of Transport, Health Impacts of the Built Environment, and Active travel – healthy lives. 

IPH submitted a response to the Road Safety Authority’s Road Safety Strategy 2013-2020 for the Republic of Ireland, in which we highlighted the importance of cross-sectoral working, the importance of supporting active travel and addressing social inequalities in road deaths and injuries. In Northern Ireland IPH responded positively to the consultation on the Roads Traffic (Speed Limits) Bill to introduce 20mph speed limits in designated restricted streets. 

IPH presented evidence to the Regional Development Committee in the Northern Ireland Assembly supporting the case for 20mph speed limits on residential roads. An official report of IPH also submitted consultation responses in the context of Northern Ireland’s Active Travel Strategy and Draft Bicycle Strategy outlining the importance of enhancing levels of cycling and walking to increase levels of physical activity and improve public health.