asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the increased number of deaths on the roads in recent weeks; if he is satisfied that visitors to this country are sufficiently warned that driving on the roads is on the left-hand side and not on the right-hand side as in Europe and elsewhere; if on arrival each tourist will be issued with a simple booklet in regard to this country's driving regulations; and if he will state (a) the number of visitors or tourists killed on Irish roads up to the latest available date this year and (b) the number involved in accidents, which resulted in death, in the same period.
Written Answers. - Road Deaths.
161.
I have already publicly expressed my concern over the increased number of road deaths in recent weeks. As far as the general public is concerned, everything possible is being done to remind road users of their responsibilities and the urgent need for greater care on the roads. The most recent measure has been the erection of special temporary warning signs on major traffic routes to remind road users of the special hazards facing us in the months of August, September and October, which last year proved to be the worst on record.
As far as visiting drivers are concerned, a special leaflet containing basic information on our rules of the road, including the requirement to drive on the left has been issued by my Department since 1966. This leaflet is printed in French, German and English. It is distributed through Bord Fáilte Éireann's regional and overseas tourist offices, travel agencies, car hire firms and motor organisations in such a way that non-resident drivers intending to bring their own cars or hire cars in this country can readily brief themselves on the legal requirements.
At Rosslare Harbour, where drivers arrive direct from right-hand drive countries, a special sign warning drivers to drive on the left has been provided. Similar signs have been provided at Shannon and Cork airports and I understand that car hire firms are particularly careful to remind visiting hirers of the requirement to drive on the left.
Statistical information is not available in the form requested by the Deputy. During 1970, the latest period for which figures are available, out of a total of 8,988 drivers of mechanically propelled vehicles involved in accidents resulting in death or personal injury, 605 were non-resident drivers. The number of non-resident drivers killed during 1970 was 15.