Joe Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 118: To ask the Minister for Transport when he will introduce regulations for compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists; when he will introduce regulations on the compulsory display of L-plates on motorcycles; and when he will reach a decision on the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists. [21981/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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A working group, including motorcycle interests, has been considering the appropriate standards that will apply to compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists. Overseeing the introduction of such training will be the responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. Primary legislation is necessary to facilitate the introduction of compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists and appropriate provision is being made in the Road Traffic Bill 2006.

It is also my intention that a requirement that motorcyclists with provisional licences must display L-plates will be introduced. The necessary regulatory provisions are currently under consideration having regard to the need for amendments to the Road Traffic Acts in the light of a recent Supreme Court decision which found that primary legislation underpinning regulations to transpose EU Directives must, notwithstanding any powers already contained in the legislation, contain a power to make regulations for the purpose of transposing EU Directives. Appropriate provision is contained in the Road Traffic Bill 2006 to deal with the Supreme Court decision.

In relation to the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists the Road Safety Authority has requested that the issue of allowing motorcyclists use bus lanes be considered and there will be discussions between the RSA and my Department on the matter.