Ms Liz O'Donnell:

I thank the Deputy for his good wishes. I intend to take the independence of the role very seriously, as did my predecessor, Mr. Gay Byrne, and the Minister expects me to do that as well.

Of course, enforcement is a huge part of the fight against road accidents, road collisions and fatalities on the roads.

Enforcing the law is important because it acts as a deterrent to those who are negligent in their road use. I note that the traffic corps was reduced in size from 1,200 to 800 gardaí, which is a source of concern. An Garda Síochána will state it is doing the best it can with reduced resources by using more intelligent ways of enforcing traffic rules, including the use of safety cameras and automatic number plate recognition systems. At the same time, it is important to the public to know that there is visibility on the roads. There is major co-ordination between the RSA and An Garda Síochána on enforcement. When we are strategising on drug driving or mandatory alcohol testing coming up to Christmas, there will be increased enforcement to collaborate and co-ordinate with the efforts of the RSA. I hope to be in a position to comment on any aspect that affects road safety. The mandatory alcohol testing enforcement, or roadside, tests have been extremely important in reducing the incidence of people drinking and driving. The message is getting across and has reduced the number of fatalities on the roads. The Minister will prepare legislation shortly to deal with the impairment of driving caused by drugs, but it requires legislation to improve enforcement. The measures will be included in the next road traffic Bill.