Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputies for their support but we have not yet reached a stage where there is a reliable test for drug driving and I indicated this on Committee Stage. I guarantee that as soon we have a reliable test, I will introduce the legislation. We are moving on this legislation to make it much more explicit from the drugs point of view.

Deputy Broughan is correct that tests for drug driving are used in Australia but, as I pointed out on Committee Stage, different atmospheric conditions affect the test. We do not have a reliable test at European level but we are working with our European counterparts to ensure one is introduced. As soon as we have a test, we will provide for it in legislation.

The Deputy quoted statistics but the lack of a roadside test does not mean drivers get away when they have drugs in their system. If they have a drug other than alcohol in their system, the blood test can show that and people are being prosecuted. I accept the comments of both Deputies. The impairment test goes some way towards addressing the issue but if we could secure a saliva test or another test, it would be better. As soon as we do, we will move on it.

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