Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Sep 1995

Vol. 455 No. 8

Written Answers. - Motorcycles Directive.

Seán Power

Question:

330 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he intends to support the democratically agreed amendments contained in the adopted position of the European Parliament on the motorcycle multi-directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12857/95]

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. R. Bruton)

An EU Council Working Group is currently discussing a proposal for a European Parliament and Council Directive for type approval of certain components or characteristics of two or three-wheel motor vehicles including motorcycles. The amendments proposed by the European Parliament are also being discussed by this Working Group.

Type approval is a system whereby vehicles or components must comply with established manufacturing/safety standards as set out in specific Directives before they are allowed to be put on the Community Market. It is hoped to have the proposed Directive submitted to the Internal Market Council in November.

In the meantime, I can assure the Deputy that the concerns of the European Parliament will be given sympathetic consideration in our examination of the proposed Directive.