asked the Minister for Local Government if he proposes to make regulations to make it compulsory to have safety belts in cars.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Car Safety Belts.
82.
Before making such regulations requiring the fitting of seat belts to cars, it is necessary to ensure that only belts conforming to acceptable standards can be supplied to the public and that the belts will be fitted in accordance with acceptable specifications. Work on determining such acceptable standards and specifications is at present in progress.
Has the Minister any idea when he will be able to make a recommendation?
It is hoped to do it soon.
How long is "soon"?
I do not know.
The Minister hopes it will be soon, but he does not know when that will be. In view of the fact——
Question No. 83.
On a point of order. May I ask a supplementary on Question No. 82?
The Deputy had every opportunity to ask it.
He had not. He was on his feet when the Chair called the next question.
The Deputy was on his feet, but he had not put any question.
He had, indeed.
I certainly had. Anyone in the House can verify that.
I shall allow the Deputy to put a supplementary question.
In view of the number of fatal traffic accidents that have occurred in the last six months, does the Minister not think it would be much more advisable that these regulations should be introduced immediately?
Yes, it will be done as soon as possible, as soon as the acceptable standards and specifications are available.
(Cavan):“As soon as possible” means nothing according to the Minister. He does not know what it means.
It means soon. If I knew the date on which this would be introduced I would say so, but I do not know the date.
(Cavan): Within the next two months?
It will be soon.
(Cavan): Will it be within the next two months? In view of the fact that the Minister said it will be introduced by him it certainly will be soon.
It will be soon.
In view of the fact that you were unable to hear Deputy Coughlan, should he not be complimented for speaking quietly for once?
The Deputy should stand in his place if he wants to put a question.