Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

No. From day one the licence will identify organ donors.

On the other issue the Deputy raised regarding tinted windows, passing the test and the case he specified, I will investigate that issue through my office and I hope to revert to him quickly on it because it is an issue that deserves to be raised.

Deputy Finian McGrath raised the issue of safety in the port tunnel, another issue I will have examined and on which I will revert to the Deputy.

I expect the provisions in this Bill will not only have a hugely positive effect on road safety but will also improve our commercial reputation. This legislation provides the groundwork for a radical change in the commercial vehicle and haulage sectors in Ireland and it will send a strong signal internationally that our country is striving to achieve the highest industry standards, particularly in regard to roadworthiness.

Following the enactment of the Bill, we can also look forward to the introduction of a plastic card licence next January, which will be managed by the RSA. People are required by law to carry a licence when driving and this credit card style licence will make it easier and more convenient for drivers to comply with such a legal requirement. Drivers will be more inclined to carry this new type of licence, which will undoubtedly help An Garda Síochána in exercising its duties as they relate to the Road Traffic Acts.

It is our wish to have the Bill enacted as quickly as possible to ensure its provisions can be commenced at an early stage. Strong legislation has been proven to reduce death and injury on our roads and this Bill should not be any different. An overhaul of the commercial vehicle testing system is long overdue and it is hoped reform of the system will begin in earnest this summer. I thank the Deputies for facilitating the introduction of the Bill in the Dáil and for their generous and considered contributions to this debate.

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