Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 3

Written Answers. - Pollution Control Tests.

Peter Barry

Question:

132 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Environment if there is any proposal to introduce pollution control tests for motor vehicles, even on a selective basis, such as obtains in Luxembourg and now in the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. M. Smith)

The existing compulsory vehicle testing scheme includes checks on emissions of smoke from diesel engines, carbon monoxide and uncombusted hydrocarbons from petrol engines and noise from both. This scheme involves the annual testing of heavy goods vehicles, buses and ambulances over one year old. The biennial testing of light goods vehicles over four years old is being phased in during 1993-1994.

EC Council Directive 91/328/EEC of 21 June, 1991, requires those member states, including Ireland, which do not have a system of regular roadworthiness testing for cars already in operation to have such a system fully operational by 1 January, 1998. In line with the Programme for a Partnership Government, I am preparing proposals for the implementation of the directive in Ireland, including the phasing-in of car testing. Such testing will include appropriate pollution control tests.