Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 6 May 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications

General Scheme of Road Traffic Bill 2015: Discussion (Resumed)

12:00 pm

Mr. John Twomey:

In regard to Deputy Ellis's initial question about equipment, we do roadside impairment testing. Work is ongoing to identify the most relevant equipment we would use in the event that the new legislation comes into force. Currently, we use roadside impairment testing. The new equipment we need is complex because of the myriad and complexity of drugs that are available to people on our streets. Work is still ongoing to identify the most appropriate equipment.

In terms of the writing-off of vehicles that are not registered, we consider that to be important legislation and that it will be of enormous benefit . The Deputy gave valid examples of how it has been used by us.

Resourcing is an ongoing issue.

However, road safety and the legislation's enforcement are organisational matters and are not confined to traffic or other sections. It is a key priority for us and will be given the relevant resources.

As to speed limits, the provisions in the heads of the Bill will streamline prosecutions and be of significant benefit to us. Any proposal to reduce speed limits in pedestrian and residential areas would be welcome.

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