Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 1990

Vol. 399 No. 10

Written Answers. - Safety of Imported Cars.

Michael Joe Cosgrave

Question:

121 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that drivers' rear view mirrors are fitted to the front wings of many imported second hand cars; if he will request the importers to remove the mirrors in the interest of road safety; and if he will refer this matter to the Garda Síochána for investigation.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn)

I am aware that many new and used cars are fitted with either wing or door mirrors, designed to improve the driver's rear view. The fitting of such mirrors is governed by the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations, the interpretation of which is primarily a matter for the courts.

In the circumstances, I do not propose to take the action referred to by the Deputy.