Michael Brennan (Progressive Democrats)

I support the motion and welcome the Government's commitment to act to address the serious issues of safety and the rates of death and injury on our roads. Traffic levels have never been higher, with 1.9 million vehicles on Irish roads. I acknowledge the safety measures programme of the National Roads Authority which has contributed greatly by improving dangerous sections of road.

I also welcome the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government's review of speed limits, especially on national secondary roads and county roads. The onus is now on local authorities to bring about these changes, especially close to schools and built-up areas. I also look forward to the traffic corps being increased to 1,200 members. When that happens it will play a leading role in improving safety on roads. That is an increase of 500 gardaí——