Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Hayden and Landy raised the matter of the imposition of automatic fines for motorists who do not have a valid national car test, NCT, disc displayed, which will come into effect on 8 December, and the need to step up an information campaign on this measure. I heard Conor Faughnan of AA Ireland outline this measure in recent weeks. It is a matter of public concern. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister, taking into consideration Senator Landy's point that people are finding it difficult to get an appointment for an NCT test in some locations.

Senators Quinn and Brennan raised the matter of the introduction of the new dye to eliminate diesel laundering. I have asked about this and the Minister of State, Deputy Simon Harris, will come to the House to discuss that matter in the new few weeks. Senator Quinn is correct in that there have been ongoing talks between scientists in Ireland, North and South, and in the UK, and as a result of that, this development has occurred. Hopefully it will eradicate this problem which is causing major difficulties to motorists and local authorities who have to deal with the sludge in particular that is dumped by criminals involved in this activity.

Senator Quinn and Senator O'Sullivan raised the matter of Deputy Dowds's suggestion that the new flyover at Newlands Cross be called the Veronica Guerin flyover. It is an excellent suggestion especially at a time when veiled threats have been made to journalists and newspapers. It is apt that this would be done now.