Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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681. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on it. [34717/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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In reference to the details supplied, it must be noted that drivers are required to ensure that the speed at which they drive is appropriate for the prevailing conditions. In an effort to address inappropriate driving speeds on rural roads a new rural speed limit sign was introduced in March 2015 to emphasise this point. This new sign means that drivers must use their judgement according to the conditions prevailing, but never exceed the 80km/h maximum limit on roads to which this sign applies.

It is important to remember that elected members of local authorities have statutory responsibility for setting appropriate Special Speed Limit bye-laws for any particular road within their remit. Supported by expert advice from local authority road engineers, elected councillors are best placed to decide on the most appropriate speed limits and any associated traffic calming measures that should apply according to varying local conditions. My Department's Guidelines for Setting and Managing Speed Limitsreiterates these responsibilities and provides guidance in relation to such.

In addition, local authorities have also been requested to review and update all speed limits in their administrative areas in accordance with theseGuidelinesand this process is currently on-going. In the case of national roads, local authorities were requested to undertake this review in conjunction with TII.