Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senators who took an interest in this important legislation. I am sure it will receive the same level of co-operation in the other House as it received from the Opposition parties in this House. We need to ensure that this important Bill is enacted before the summer recess. Several Bills relating to road traffic law have been enacted in recent years, including the Bill that established the Road Safety Authority. I understand that the authority's first meeting since it was established on a statutory basis — there were some meetings of the interim authority — is taking place today in Dublin. Both Houses are aware of the evolving nature of road traffic law and the need to ensure that appropriate legislative supports are in place to promote road safety.

Many issues were raised during the debate on this Bill. I tried to accommodate Opposition Senators as much as I could when they proposed amendments. That demonstrates the importance of debate in this House. The amendments I accepted will improve the Bill. I ask Members to appreciate that I was unable to accept some Opposition amendments, not for the sake of it but because they might have watered down the Bill. I know that was not the intention of the Senators who tabled the amendments in question. We hope to bring the Bill to the Dáil next week, to be enacted within the next two weeks. This legislation will allow us to fulfil the aspirations of the Minister, Deputy Cullen, in respect of speed cameras and mandatory alcohol testing. I hope there will be a substantial reduction in the number of road fatalities over the next 12 months, compared with the past 12 months. If such a reduction takes place, I hope we will be able to attribute it to the introduction and enactment of this Bill by these Houses.

As we approach what will hopefully be another beautiful weekend, I call on everyone who is responsible to work to improve safety on the roads and bring about a reduction in the number of fatalities. The Oireachtas can establish a road safety framework by means of legislation and regulation. Individuals who sit behind the steering wheels and walk along the roads need to take their responsibilities seriously. If we abide by and adhere to the simple rules and regulations which are in place, we can make the roads safer for all road users.

Before I conclude my summary, I would like to thank Senators for their contributions to this debate. I remind the wider public that the circumstances which might lead any of us to experience this problem could be around the next corner. Given that so many young people are in the Gallery at present, it is appropriate for me to remind their counterparts of all ages in all parts of the country that young people who do not drive can have an influence on others. For example, they can ensure that drivers do not move their cars until they and their passengers have put on their safety belts. I ask those who are visiting the Oireachtas to keep that simple message in mind. Along with their school colleagues, they can make a contribution by not allowing their families and friends to start driving until they have ensured that all safety belts are engaged.

Mar focal scoir, ba mhaith liom mo bhíochas a chuir in iúl don tSeanaid as ucht an chuidiú agus an chomh-oibriú a bhí idir na Seanadóirí ó gach thaobh den Teach nuair a bhíomar ag plé an An Dara Céim, Céim an Choiste agus An Tuarascáil den Bille um Thrácht ar Bhóithre 2006. Guím gach rath Dé oraibh. I thank the Cathaoirleach's officials and my officials in the Department of Transport, who worked through the night over the past few nights on the amendments to the Bill. While we take the credit, we also have to take the blame, if appropriate. I give full credit to the various officials, to whom I publicly express my gratitude.