Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I keep raising these issues and hope they will comprise an important focus of our debate on the economy.

Will the Leader arrange a debate on speed limits at an early date? The roll-out of the speed cameras is moving ahead. If, when this is complete, we have not reviewed the illogical speed limits that apply in many parts of the country, there will be widespread disaffection among motorists regarding the implementation of the policy. We want a climate of compliance that ensures motorists will remain within speed limits.

I travel on a greatly improved road network, including motorways and a very high-quality dual carriageway. The high-quality dual carriageway is up to motorway standard but the 100 km/h speed limit that applied on the ordinary winding single carriageway that existed before it was constructed has not been changed. This is ludicrous. We are spending considerable amounts of capital and this is partly so the driving public, particularly commercial motorists, can benefit. Thus, we can become more competitive economically. It is an essential part of improving the economy in any case. I would like the Minister for Transport to be invited to the House to answer questions on this issue.

Seven or eight years ago, I was told by the then chief executive of the National Roads Authority that this matter would be dealt with very speedily in respect of the Arklow bypass. The authority has very highly paid executives who should be turning their attention to such issues, which are very easily resolved. Addressing them would assist in the overall development of the economy on foot of the considerable investment made under the national development plan. We want to benefit from the investment and want people to be sensible and intelligent in doing so.