Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on EU proposals to introduce mandatory technical inspections for motorbikes; if he will outline the implications this may have for motorbike users here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41716/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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On 13th July 2012, the EU Commission published proposals relating to roadworthiness testing and roadside checks of vehicles.  The proposals include a number of measures including the introduction of compulsory testing of mopeds and motorcycles with the first periodic inspection four years after first registration, then again after another 2 years and annually from year 7 onwards.  The Commission's proposals are currently the subject of detailed consideration and discussions by all EU Member States in the Council's Transport Working Group.

I understand that the Road Safety Authority invited interested stakeholders and the general public to submit their views on the Commission proposals during August and September and that consultation period will not conclude until 5th October. The RSA will give careful consideration to all feedback received from stakeholders and the general public, as well as the road safety and cost benefits associated with the various proposals, and will submit its views to me in due course.