Derek McDowell (Labour)

That is not clear in the text of the Bill, which refers to the undertaking. This could refer to the tolling company. While I do not have a problem with this in principle, we should not seek to use this as a revenue raising mechanism from hard-pressed motorists using a road that should not be tolled. The fine should be pitched at a realistic level, deterring people from skipping the toll but not as a major revenue raising exercise.

Another Senator referred to France, where Sanef has experience. E-tag tolls are an option in France but one can also choose the pay-as-you-go lane. Many people on French motorways choose the e-tag lane. Our system will be different and much more ambitious in providing only for e-tagging. We will do very well to have this set up by the middle of next year. International experience suggests this is an ambitious project and I hope the Minister is confident it can be accomplished.

Another Senator referred to foreign cars, particularly those from Northern Ireland. Why can we not gain access to the database of cars in Northern Ireland?