asked the Minister for Justice if foreign operated hauliers operating in Ireland are subject to inspection by the Garda Síochána, as are Irish hauliers, to ensure compliance with Irish and EEC transport legislation, directives and regulations; how the penalties on foreign hauliers are enforced; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Foreign Hauliers.
227.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that foreign hauliers are subject to the same checks as are Irish vehicles to secure compliance with all relevant legislation. There are, however, legal difficulties in making foreign hauliers amenable in respect of offences under the road traffic, road transport and EEC legislation in force in this country, after they have left the jurisdiction of the State. The question of amending legislation in this area would be a matter primarily for the Ministers for the Environment and Transport. I understand that proposals for legislation to enable the provisions of road transport legislation to be applied more effectively to foreign hauliers are among the recommendations contained in the Report of the Transport Consulative Commission on Road Freight Haulage which is at present being considered by the Minister for Transport.