Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have been listening to the discussion, and I have read the witnesses' documentation, and I do not want to go back over what they have already covered here with other members.

How highly does the RSA rate the difficulty we have with accident black spots and the poor condition of roads? Mr. Waide stated that a high percentage of accidents, 48%, occur on rural roads with speed limits of at least 80 km/h. Those roads are in urgent need of upgrade. When we look at all the obvious reasons for road accidents, this one is completely underestimated. What does Mr. Waide think of the necessity for accident black spots to be remedied, with a specific fund made available? How does the RSA get information on black spots? After an accident, what level of co-ordination or co-operation is there between the RSA and local authorities? As another member asked earlier, is that feedback accurate?

We never hear anything about this any more, but what level of inspection is the RSA carrying out in respect of vehicles and their roadworthiness? Is this a contributory factor to accidents? I appreciate there a lot of new cars on the road but there are still a lot of old vehicles, especially lorries and other heavy-duty vehicles. What level of inspections is taking place in respect of them?