Written answers
Wednesday, 29 November 2023
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Road Safety
Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
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30. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the parameters for the use of tractors and agricultural vehicles on motorways; which vehicles are permitted to use motorways; the speed limits, if any, that apply to same; and if any specific prohibitions apply to their use of motorways. [52630/23]
Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals.
The motorway speed limit is 120km/h, with reduced limits on sections of the M50. In order for vehicles to be allowed to use motorways, they must be capable of reaching a minimum speed of 50km/h. Therefore, as many modern tractors and agricultural vehicles have a design speed of over 50km/h, these vehicles can legally use the motorway network.
The use of motorways is regulated by Part IV of the Roads Regulations, 1994, which applies to all vehicles.
Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
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31. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport with regard to the increasing and concerning number of road traffic accidents and fatalities on Irish roads, his views on the percentage of those accidents which involved left-hand-drive vehicles; if left-hand-drive vehicles and drivers more accustomed to driving on the right side of the road is, or could be, a factor in such accidents; if he will consider improved or increased road signage to increase awareness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52631/23]
Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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Among its responsibilities, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) gathers road safety data and conducts research on road safety issues to inform the development of policy. I have therefore referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct reply on the specific issue raised. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
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