Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 6

Written Answers. - Road Transport Bill.

Ivan Yates

Question:

213 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will proceed with the Road Transport Bill, 1997; the reason for the delay in rescheduling and enacting this; if she is committed to the sections of the Bill which deal with the change in consignor liability in relation to excess laden weights; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8925/98]

Minister of State at the Department of Public Enterprise (Mr. Jacob)

I propose to re-introduce the Road Transport Bill before the end of the year.

The delay in re-scheduling the Bill was due mainly to the need to find a suitable provision to deal effectively with enforcement of the road transport legislation in respect of out-of-State hauliers and to address any legislative changes arising from a new EU Directive concerning access to the profession of road haulage and bus operator. In addition, I consider that priority needed to be given to the proposed Bill on the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.

I can assure the Deputy that I am committed to the concept of consignor liability in cases of overloaded vehicles and a suitable provision will be contained in the proposed Transport Bill.