Vol. 561 No. 1
442 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport the person dealing with the regulation of imported cars, with particular reference to ensuring that they meet the required safety standards; if there is a default in a new car, if there is an independent body which could assess and advise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3190/03]
I have responsibility for specifying the standards with which motor vehicles must comply for entry-into-service and in-use purposes in Ireland. All new cars sold in the European Union must have whole vehicle type approval, WVTA. WVTA requires cars to meet the requirements set out in a series of separate directives, of which there are currently 46, which set out mandatory safety and environmental protection standards. The standards specified in these type approval directives have been adopted at EU level following extensive consultation with vehicle manufacturing interests and with member states. Vehicles with such approval cannot be refused access to the market in the EU.
It is a condition for the registration of a new car by the Revenue Commissioners that the application for registration includes a certificate of conformity from the car manufacturer declaring that the vehicle complies with all relevant type approval directives. The EU type approval process includes mechanisms for dealing with irregularities and defects in type approved vehicles. There are remedies available under contract and consumer protection legislation whereby an aggrieved vehicle owner may pursue complaints against the seller of a defective motor vehicle. In addition, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry operates a free service for investigating unresolved complaints against members through its motor industry tribunal. The Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 2003 set out mandatory requirements relating to the construction and use of vehicles. Enforcement of these regulations is a matter for the Garda Síochána.
