Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 520: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the adequacy of enforcement and oversight in respect of cars which are legally entitled to be travelling on roads here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6413/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Department of Transport has no figures on how many vehicles registered outside the State operate on our roads. Under the EU motor insurance directives that have been adopted by all member states, it is mandatory for drivers of mechanically propelled vehicles in the EU, when driving in a public place, to be insured for third party liability. Furthermore, an insurance policy extends to covering the motorist against third party liability when he or she drives in another EU member state.

Outside of the EU, Ireland is a member of the green card system, along with over 40 other countries. This system facilitates the movement of vehicles across international borders by the use of an internationally acceptable document proving the existence of insurance, the green card or international insurance card. This ensures that victims of foreign registered vehicles are not disadvantaged.

I would also like to point out that all victims of uninsured driving, whether the driver of the uninsured vehicle is Irish or a non-national, are entitled to compensation through the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland, MIBI, which is funded through our motor insurance premia. MIBI is part of a European organisation, Council of Bureaux, which facilitates common insurance arrangements to permit international vehicle movement across Europe. In particular, MIBI act as insurer of foreign vehicles in Ireland to facilitate Irish citizens who have been involved in an accident with a foreign motorist. Any victims of vehicles identified as not registered in this State and not insured will be compensated by the MIBI who will then seek recompense from the home bureau of that vehicle.

If a penalty points offence is committed, penalty points will be recorded on the national driver file in the name of the person concerned, irrespective of nationality or residence.