Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 339: To ask the Minister for Transport; Tourism and Sport the number of motorists that have been charged and found guilty of driving under the influence of illegal drugs each year since 2007; if he has reviewed the successful roadside testing programmes that are currently in operation in a number of Australian states including Queensland and Tasmania; if he has any plans to introduce similar roadside drug testing schemes here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21737/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The responsibility for enforcement of Road Traffic legislation is a matter for An Garda Síochána. Information in relation to the number of motorists charged and found guilty of driving under the influence of illegal drugs is a matter for the Gardaí and the Court Service.

The Medical Bureau of Road Safety is aware of and is studying the road side testing programmes that are currently in operation in a number of Australian States. These involve limited roadside saliva testing using the technology that is currently available.

I understand from the Bureau that the technology in use in Australia would not be suitable for use in Irish climatic conditions. However, the Bureau will continue to review the forensic options available as the technology develops.

I can assure the Deputy that when suitable technology becomes available I will provide the legislative basis for its introduction as quickly as possible. In the meantime, the Road Traffic Act, 2010 includes provisions for field impairment testing i.e. non-technological methods by which the Garda can make a preliminary assessment about the possible presence of drugs.