Vol. 555 No. 1
131 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered proposals from young drivers for the fitting of tacographs and speed inhibitors on vehicles as part of a programme for lower insurance premiums and road safety. [17691/02]
Under EU law the fitting of speed limitation devices on coaches over ten tonnes in weight and on goods vehicles over 12 tonnes in weight is mandatory. These directives are fully implemented in Ireland.
Proposals for a directive on the fitting of speed limiters to light commercial vehicles are expected to be considered by the Council of Transport Ministers before year-end. Additionally, the European Commission is carrying out research into the use of speed limiters in all vehicles. In line with the commitment in the Government strategy on road safety, Ireland will continue to support strongly the development and introduction of new vehicle safety measures at EU level.
Non-statutory initiatives aimed at monitoring or limiting driving by young insured persons and at incentivising good driving behaviour, have recently been launched by a number of insurance companies. The effects of these initiatives will be kept under review.
