Dozens of people with a mental disability heard this weekend one day in advance that they were not allowed to cross Haarlemmermeer on the back of motorcycles. The police pointed out the new traffic control policy to the organization of the annual ‘Appierun’, as a result of which the trip fell through.
“The police have indicated that the group of traffic controllers is not authorized to guide the Appierun without police escort, as previously submitted,” a spokesperson for organizer 2Wheels4Wings told NH Nieuws.
Shortage of motorcycle cops
A spokesperson for the municipality of Haarlemmermeer says that the police pointed the organization and municipality to a decision taken by the national police at the end of March. “The policy now is that the police no longer have motor police officers accompany columns like this. In the past, they also cordoned off intersections.”
The police made this decision due to the shortage of motorcycle police officers. The NOS wrote earlier that the decision means the death knell for many cycling races. If the Appierun had continued this weekend, the organization itself would be liable in the event of accidents. She then decided to cancel the trip.
“These champs have a hard time dealing with setbacks”
The cancellation of the annual motorcycle tour was a great disappointment for many participants, according to Facebook reactions. “I know clients who have been looking forward to this for a whole year,” writes Patricia, for example.
The decision caused traffic supervisor Michiel a lot of grief. “All those happy participants who would experience the ‘most beautiful day of the year’ for them… Sad for me and my colleague volunteers, but a small disaster for the participants.” Motorcyclist Peter was even worried: “These champs have a hard time dealing with setbacks. All those coats and care staff will have their hands full.”
Still party
To ease the pain, the organization decided to organize a small party for participants in the Appierun on Saturday. In day center De Vaart in Hoofddorp they could come and have lunch and play games while a DJ played cheerful music.
The organization expects the Appierun to continue next year. “We will soon have an appointment with all stakeholders to evaluate what happened and how we can prevent it in the future.” The spokesperson emphasizes that he is pleased with the constructive attitude of the municipality of Haarlemmermeer. He confirms to go to the table with the organization.
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