Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 184: To ask the Minister for Transport the changes in the future relating to the impairment test for drug drivers; the way this test is currently implemented and his plans to improve this system. [38021/10]

Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 186: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans to tackle the issue of drug driving; the measures he will take to reduce this road safety hazard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38020/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 184 and 186 together.

It is illegal under the current legislation to drive under the influence of drugs in Ireland. Enforcement of the law on driving under the influence of drugs is a matter for An Garda Síochána. When a member of the Garda suspects that a motorist is driving under the influence of any intoxicant, the Garda may arrest the driver under Section 49 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 (as amended by the 2004 Road Traffic Act).

However, identifying the presence of drugs is more complex than for alcohol. Roadside drug testing would be key to tackling this issue but there is no feasible basis as yet in Ireland or in Europe for the introduction of a preliminary roadside test for drugs, as testing devices are still in the prototype stages.

The Medical Bureau of Road Safety is keeping abreast of developments and will advise me when a suitable roadside-testing device becomes available.

In the interim and in line with the commitment in the current Road Safety Strategy 2007-2012, Section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 2010, when commenced, will provide for the preliminary impairment testing of drivers by members of the Garda Síochána. This provision will assist the Garda in forming an opinion as to whether a driver is under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle.