asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the serious problems created for the transport industry arising from the fact that the EC regulation on axle weights has not been implemented; and if it is his intention to bring the regulations into operation in Ireland.
Written Answers. - Axle Weight Regulations.
44.
I will be making regulations shortly implementing Directive 85/3/EEC of 19 December 1984 on the weights (including axle weights), dimensions and related characteristics of certain goods vehicles circulating internationally. Ireland has a derogation from the EC triaxle weight limit of 24 tonnes. The length of the derogation will be decided by the EC Council of Transport Ministers in February 1987.
The EC adopted a second directive — 86/360/EEC on 24 July 1986 — fixing the maximum weight of the sole drive axle of 5 and 6 axle combined vehicles at 11.5 tonnes with effect from 1 January 1992. Ireland has a derogation from the drive axle weight limit of 11.5 tonnes. The duration of Ireland's derogation will be determined by the EC Council of Transport Ministers by 30 June 1988.
The purpose of the derogations from Directives 85/3/EEC and 86/360/EEC is to allow Irish bridges and roads to be strengthened to carry the heavier axle weights laid down by the EC.