asked the Minister for Local Government whether in view of the fact that, in some recent cases involving pedestrians who were knocked down while crossing the street, the motorist was found guilty but fined only a nominal small amount he will investigate the legal position with regard to pedestrians crossing the street; and whether he will take steps to publicise widely the legal position and duties of both pedestrians and motorists in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rights of Pedestrians and Motorists.
59.
This is a subject covered by bye-laws made by the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána with my consent.
The provisions of the bye-laws on the subject have been widely publicised in the "Rules of the Road" and in leaflets issued by my Department, while a film specially devoted to "zebra crossings" has just been made. This film is intended for showing in the cinemas and on television.
While the respective rights of way are regulated by the bye-laws, they do not affect the overriding duty of both pedestrians and drivers to take care. The exercise of care, consideration and courtesy by all road users is perhaps more important than any legal rule, and I take this opportunity to impress this maxim again on the public.
I may mention that officers of the Garda, in consultation with officers of my Department, are working on the preparation of new, comprehensive general bye-laws on traffic and pedestrian control under the Road Traffic Act, 1961. I cannot say at this stage that these bye-laws will involve any change affecting the rights and duties of pedestrians, but I can say that this, with all other aspects of the subject, will be fully examined and that the new bye-laws will also be widely publicised.