David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 75: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on the fact that a large number of road accidents may be attributed to drivers falling asleep while they are driving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9142/06]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 130: To ask the Minister for Transport the action he intends to take to alert people to the dangers of driving when they are excessively tired; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9141/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 75 and 130 together.

Commentary on the information available regarding causes of fatal road collisions is prepared by the National Roads Authority, NRA, based on reports from the Garda Síochána and published by the authority in its annual Road Accident Facts reports. The most recent report is in respect of 2004 and that report is available in the Oireachtas Library and on the NRA website. Such commentary has not, to date, included specific details of a link between fatigue and fatal crashes in Ireland. The question bank for the driver theory test includes questions regarding fatigue so that learner drivers are aware before they commence driving of the dangers of driving while fatigued.

The National Safety Council, which has been mandated with responsibility for promotional and educational initiatives relating to road safety, has produced a leaflet on driver fatigue. It has also organised two nationwide campaigns called Driver Reviver to address the problem of driver fatigue. This campaign was first launched on Easter weekend 2002 and over the All-Ireland football final weekend in September 2003. The council is in the process of developing a further driver fatigue awareness campaign in 2006.

The proposed Road Safety Authority will take over responsibility for the functions of the National Safety Council as well as for road safety research and statistical collection. This will result in a more integrated approach to road safety policy generally, with one agency responsible for road safety research, statistical data, advertising, education and recommendations regarding road safety policy.