Denis Naughten
Question:197 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he will outlaw the importation of cars with halogen lights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20650/02]
Written Answers. - Road Safety.
Denis Naughten
Question:198 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has plans to ensure the enforcement of the lights regulations for motor vehicles, in view of the number of cars using halogen lamps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20651/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 and 198 together.
Irish regulations require lamps that show a light to the front of a vehicle to be fitted and constructed so that they will not dazzle or mislead other traffic when lit. In addition, such lamps must be fitted with a dipping device so that the beam of light from the lamp, when dipped, is incapable of dazzling a person more than 25 feet away from the lamp and in a specified position, which approximates to that of the driver of an oncoming vehicle. Exceptions to the dipping device requirement are made for direction indicators and for one or more other lamps with a combined maximum power output of seven watts. Dipped headlamps must be used when a vehicle is either passing another vehicle or travelling close behind one. Within this framework a maximum power rating is not specified for vehicle lights. The Garda is responsible for the enforcement of these regulations.
Checks on headlamp alignment and condition are carried out as part of both the national car test and commercial vehicle testing scheme. Standards for lighting for new vehicles are specified in EU type approval law. These standards have been adopted at EU level following extensive consultation with vehicle and lighting manufacturing interests and with member states. All new cars sold in Ireland are required to meet the standards, which are also deemed to comply with national vehicle lighting law. Within this framework, gas discharge headlamps and other headlamps that contain inert gases such as halogen have been type approved in accordance with European Union law and are consequently in compliance with Irish lighting law.