French transport minister to meet cycling groups after cyclist death

France’s minister of transportation is set to meet with cycling associations on Monday, following the death of 27-year-old cyclist Paul Varry in Paris, allegedly run over deliberately by an SUV driver. The driver now faces preliminary murder charges. 

Varry’s death has sparked nationwide protests demanding safer roads for cyclists and an end to “motorised violence”. 

Varry, a passionate advocate for urban cycling, was well-known for his efforts to improve cycling infrastructure in Saint-Ouen, in northern Paris. 

On Saturday, hundreds gathered to honour him, with groups like Paris en Selle promising to continue his campaign for safer streets. 

Transportation Minister François Durovray expressed his condolences to Varry’s family and affirmed that cyclists “have a place on the road”.

He sees Monday’s meeting as a crucial step in addressing the safety concerns raised by the cycling community, which has been deeply shaken by Varry’s death.

The incident has sparked debates on road safety and cyclist protection, especially as urban cycling increases across France.