Cyclists are issued a charge through the post and given 28 days to pay the €40 fine (Stock photo)

Almost 600 cyclists have felt the impact of the new penalty regime since its introduction last summer.

From August 1 last year, cyclists became subject to Fixed Notice Charges (FNCs) for seven offences including breaking a red light or entering a pedestrian area.

In a response to a parliamentary question directed at Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald, it has emerged that 577 cyclists received FNCs as at January 22 this year.

Having no front or rear lamp lit after dark, failing to stop for a school warden sign and through red traffic lights are also offences included under the new law.

'Rogue' cyclists are issued a charge through the post and given 28 days to pay the €40 fine.

If they do not pay in that time the amount owed rises to €60 and failure to pay that fine will see the cyclist issued with a summons.

Other offences include cycling beyond a stop line, barrier or half barrier at a railway level crossing, swing bridge or lifting bridge, when the red lamps are flashing.

Online Editors