Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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243. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding proposed changes to weight restrictions for tractors and trailers; the implications this will have for users of these vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7191/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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In 2008, the RSA commenced a consultation and review of the regulation, classification and safety issues surrounding the use of agricultural and related works vehicles on public roads.  Their report, delivered in March 2009, contained a number of recommendations for dealing with the issue. Following my approval, in principle, of the recommendations, extensive consultations were held with the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the Irish Farmers Association, representatives of agricultural contractors and the Irish Road Haulage Association.  

In the wake of these consultations, a number of road safety related proposals were formulated  by the RSA and I agreed them in November 2012. Depending on the number of axles, axle spacing, and type of coupling, agricultural vehicles will be able to draw up to 28 tonnes. In view of the increase in safety risk associated with larger and heavier vehicles using the public road, tractors and trailers operating at the higher weights would be subject to roadworthiness testing. The proposed arrangements also regulate axle spacing, vehicle and trailer plating, lighting and visibility, braking and coupling, and will, in time also extend to driving licences, on-road behaviour, accident reporting and enforcement.  

The draft Statutory Instruments to give legislative effect to the road safety related decisions are being prepared by the RSA and will be submitted to my Department shortly.