Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

As the Deputy is aware, the Road Safety Authority, RSA, is responsible for developing a new road safety strategy for the period from 2007 to 2011. It went to public consultation in October last year and I understand a substantial number of suggestions and proposals have been received as a result of this process. The RSA also engaged in a process of direct consultation with key stakeholders in December 2006. I welcome the fact that a large volume of submissions were received and that the authority has been working its way through these submissions prior to finalising the new strategy.

It is only on receipt and examination of the new strategy that any new legislative requirements can be identified. In the meantime, I am anxious that the Roads Bill 2007, which is necessary to underpin the barrier-free tolling planned for the M50, is enacted before the dissolution of the Dáil. When I receive the new road safety strategy, I will submit it to the Government for approval as soon as possible thereafter.

The Road Traffic Act 2006 has been enacted and a number of key measures commenced. These include the provision to combat drink driving through enabling roadside mandatory alcohol testing and a ban on the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving. It should be noted that the number of road deaths in 2006 was the second lowest in 40 years.

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