Vol. 528 No. 1
303 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans he has to amend regulations governing the gross weight limits on various articulated container and open trucks in accordance with UK limits and EU regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29747/00]
Maximum weight limits for various goods vehicles in use on international journeys, including articulated trucks and open trucks, are set out in Directive 96/53/EC. The overall maximum weight of 44 tonnes applies only in respect of vehicles with particular axle configuration and suspension characteristics expect. I propose shortly to make regulations that will permit weight limits in line with the directive for vehicles which are travelling in Ireland as part of an international journey. I understand the UK authorities are preparing to take similar measures.
I am also considering separately the possible extension of these weight limits to vehicles which are travelling only within Ireland.
