Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I note that there were several extraordinarily tragic incidents on the roads at the start of the year. Of course, any loss of life is tragic, but our hearts go out to everyone involved in the incidents that occurred. While there has been a slight decrease versus where we were one year ago, I derive little satisfaction from this, given the number of people who have lost their lives.

Arising from the 2004 Road Traffic Act, local authorities are obliged to place 80 km/h speed limit signs on some minor local roads and boreens off a road with a higher speed limit. Where the roads are too minor to be assessed by the local authority, a default speed limit of 80 km/h is specified in the Act. This has led to widespread deployment of 80 km/h signs on some roads that are decidedly narrow tracks and on which it is not possible to drive at the speed limit posted.

The report of the speed limits review group was completed in November 2013, with a two-year timeframe to implement its recommendations. My Department continues to work with the NRA, local authorities, the Garda and the Road Safety Authority on their implementation. Much background work has been undertaken to develop new regulations, guidelines and standards. There is no proposal to substitute the current speed limit signs on rural roads with signs stating "Drive carefully".

The report examined several options for improved signage on regional and local roads. Specifically in the case of narrow country roads, the report recommended that the numerical 80 km/h sign be replaced with a generic sign not displaying a numeral. While the limit would remain at 80 km/h, the recommended new sign would have a black circle with a diagonal line. Such signs are in use internationally and were used in this country prior to 2005. This sign means that drivers must use their judgment when using the road in question but must not exceed the limit of 80 km/h. The limits should not be interpreted as a target or suggestion that it is safe to drive up to the limit or the numeral displayed. I emphasise that I will be keeping this policy under constant review to ensure the goal of having safer roads is achieved.

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