Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

Many of us look back with sadness at the increased number of road deaths since Christmas. To date in 2006 we have experienced the highest number of road deaths since the comparable period in 2001. The Minister for Transport has been loud on commitments with regard to introducing safety changes but anyone reading a newspaper today would know he has been very low on delivery. This is a serious issue.

It is sad that many of the recent road deaths involve new immigrants. Many immigrants bring their cars to this country. While Irish cars are subject to the national car test which ensures they operate efficiently and effectively, are there any controls on cars brought into this country? It is an important factor. In many cases these motorists are unfamiliar with Irish roads. I would like to be assured that their vehicles are operating effectively and in accordance with the high standards of the NCT.