Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 40: To ask the Minister for Transport when he will make a decision on whether to lower the blood alcohol limit for motorists; the national and international experts and agencies advising him on this matter; and if he will make a decision on the matter. [32774/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The Road Safety Strategy 2007 to 2012 identifies the need to legislate for and introduce a reduction in the legal Blood Alcohol Level for drivers, but does not specify what that level should be. I am awaiting the advice of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) on the matter, and am aware that the RSA has sought the advice of its Policy Advisory Panel and expects that recommendations will be made to the RSA Board in early 2008. The RSA Advisory Panel, details of which are published in the 2007 to 2012 Road Safety Strategy, will take into account known driver behaviour, past offending rates, analysis of data held by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety, enforcement practicalities and best international practice, and advice on the most appropriate BAC level to deliver the optimum road safety dividend.