asked the Minister for Local Government whether he will introduce proposals for legislation to provide that motor traffic must stop when pedestrians are crossing a road at a recognised crossing, or, if it is possible to make such provision by Order under existing enactments, whether he will arrange accordingly.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pedestrian Crossings.
The matter referred to by the Deputy is covered by Section 147 of the Road Traffic Act, 1933, and By-laws 9 (1) and 7 (2) (g) of the General By-laws for the Control of Traffic, 1937. A legal difficulty has arisen, however, in regard to the traffic signs which are required to give effect to the by-laws, and the introduction of legislation to overcome this difficulty is under consideration.
Is the Minister aware that no regulations are being enforced in connection with the rights of pedestrians to cross the streets and that, as a matter of fact, some of the legal advisers to the local authorities are unaware of such regulations? Is the Minister further aware that in other countries when a pedestrian crosses a road at a recognised crossing the motor traffic stops? Will the Minister see that any regulations which may be necessary to put this matter into proper order will be enforced?
I have informed the Deputy that we are aware of the legal difficulty, that the matter is being examined, and that the possibility of amending legislation is being considered.