Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

We must be far more forensic in our analysis of what is going on so public policy can counter the difficulties that exist. We are regularly informed it is not only speed and alcohol that lead to accidents but also driver fatigue, driver distraction as a consequence of mobile telephone usage, poor road surfaces, inadequate public lighting and so on. The reality is we do not know enough about the factors that contribute to road accidents and we must do something about this. Firm information should inform public policy. Otherwise, we are just guessing or basing policy on anecdotal evidence and surmise.

Section 4 relates to drug testing, an issue that has been raised on several occasions. I accept the Minister's assertion that there is, as yet, no single reliable test. However, pilot schemes are ongoing in other countries and there are tests for individual drugs. This section provides that the Minister can, where appropriate and by means of regulations, introduce specific tests to test for particular drugs. The technology is changing rapidly and so are the drugs of choice. We heard yesterday that the latest popular drug is one that can be bought over the counter in health food shops and other locations.

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