John Dennehy (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 417: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on reports that active cruise control systems in certain new car models (details supplied) can result in Garda laser equipment being unable to attain a speed reading; if the possession, installation, importation or sale of any devices designed to detect or block Garda laser speed guns is illegal; if he has satisfied himself that sufficient deterrents are in place to deter such actions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3037/04]

Jim McDaid (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Active cruise control is a new technology with variants available on relatively few new vehicles. I am aware of the claims that such equipment may interfere with certain speed detection equipment used by the Garda Síochána and have decided to ask the Garda authorities for a report on the matter.

Under the Road Traffic (Speed Meter Detectors) Regulations 1991 it is an offence to import, supply, offer to supply, fit or offer to fit a speed meter detector device in a vehicle or to use such a device in a vehicle. The penalties for a breach of the regulations are a fine not exceeding €800 in the case of a first offence, a fine not exceeding €1,500 in the case of a second or subsequent offence and a fine of €1,500 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months in the case of a third or subsequent offence in a period of 12 consecutive months. I am satisfied that the combination of Garda enforcement and the penalties outlined provide sufficient deterrents.