Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 May 1998

Vol. 490 No. 5

Written Answers. - Car Testing.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

29 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the recent discussions, if any, he has had with the EU Commission in relation to the implementation of the EU Directive on compulsory car testing; whether the Commission agreed with Ireland's approach on the implementation of this directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10536/98]

Richard Bruton

Question:

38 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will have arrangements made to limit the proposed car testing for vehicles over four years to items strictly related to road safety in an initial period until there has been an opportunity to assess the cost effectiveness of compulsory standards in other areas which he is considering as part of the testing. [10486/98]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 38 together.

The relevant EU directive specifies the items for mandatory testing and member states may not omit these from the test. As I indicated in a reply on 5 March my Department has undertaken consultation with a wide range of interested parties, including the motor industry, about the detailed parameters of the car test here. In specifying the test requirements I will take account of the outcome of these consultations, subject to the requirements of the directive.

It is intended to commence the operation of car testing, on a phased basis early next year. This proposal has already been communicated to, and noted by, the European Commission.