Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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1083. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to engage with farming representative bodies regarding a proposed national car test to be introduced in 2018; if he has engaged with relevant stakeholders to date; the criteria regarding the testing of tractors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47088/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy knows, I am absolutely committed to do everything I can as Minister to ensure road safety.  That is why I am determined that Ireland complies with latest EU directives on testing vehicles for their roadworthiness – not just because of our obligations under EU law.  However, it is important that we do that in a practical and enforceable way.

At my invitation, representative bodies from the agriculture and forestry sector  met with officials of my Department on 1 November to discuss their concerns about proposed regulations to comply with an EU directive regarding testing the roadworthiness of T5 tractors - that is, those which can exceed 40 km/hr in speed.   

Arising out of the range of issues that were identified by the various bodies in terms of how the regulations might impact on their members’ farms and businesses, I have asked my officials to re-examine the text of the regulations.  Subject to legal advice and further engagement with the sector, I intend to bring forward alternative proposals as a matter of urgency. 

In the meantime, I am looking at means to ensure that the current text does not take effect with any unintended consequences.