asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that the lack of an adequate and effective dimming system renders a high proportion of vehicles a menace on the road; that this applies particularly to (1) trucks, lorries and buses operated by C.I.E., (2) most privately owned trucks and lorries, (3) a low-powered popular model family passenger car manufactured by a firm of long standing, and (4) many old vehicles, and that in consequence many avoidable accidents occur; and, if so, if he will introduce proposals for legislation to remedy this state of affairs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Light-Dimming Systems.
I would refer the Deputy to the terms of the Mechanically Propelled Vehicles (Construction, Equipment, and Use) (Amendment) Order, 1948, which requires every mechanically propelled vehicle to be equipped with a dimming device maintained in good efficient working order.
Surely the Minister must be satisfied that the law is not being observed?
The law may not be observed, but if it is not being observed, even if I were the competent authority, what could I do about it?
Surely it is a paradoxical situation that publicly-ownedcompanies like the C.I.E. can operate lorries which are a menace to the public?
I understand that certain difficulties arose some time ago owing to a strike and that the vehicles to which the Deputy has referred may not have been at all times in the condition required, but that is no longer the case.
Is the Minister aware that even though the law compels people to have these devices the statute does not compel people to use them? You comply with the Act if you have one of them.
That is so; but if it is so, it is because the facts and the circumstances surrounding the use of these devices have been considered by those who, I expect, have a fair knowledge of these matters and it is on their recommendation that that is the case.
The Minister for Justice does not like to go beyond the 250,000 mark.
In view of the Minister's statement that the lorries used by C.I.E. are now properly equipped, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.
I shall communicate with the Deputy in the course of the evening.