Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

Such a connection should not exist. I am implacably opposed to the development of a culture of remuneration in this area that would be akin to the culture associated with the work of clampers, as they are known. While the work of clampers is socially valuable, it is known that they often step up their activities to make an increased profit. As speed cameras are being introduced as a road safety measure, they must be primarily under the control of the Garda. The level of payment made to private sector interests should not relate to the number of people caught speeding by speed cameras. The process should be entirely within this country's justice system rather than outside it.

Metric speed limits were successfully introduced in January on foot of the Road Traffic Act 2004, which was debated by the House last December. The introduction of the speed limits was a large and complex exercise that encompassed a major procurement operation, the design and implementation of significant public information and public relations campaigns and the co-ordination of a programme for the provision of over 58,000 new and replacement traffic signs, which was undertaken by local authority staff throughout the country. The new metric speed limit system has been widely accepted. As Senators are aware, it has led to a reduction in speed limits on our regional and local road network.

The 2004 Act led to the retention of the involvement of the elected members of county and city councils in applying special speed limits, a process that is assisted by guidelines I issued in recent days. I hope local authorities will exercise the powers they have been given, which were sought by councillors. Members of local authorities know that low and carefully thought-out speed limits are needed in bad areas near certain schools and hospitals. I urge them to exercise their expanded authority, which I gave to them in the 2004 Act in line with their wishes.