Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 2

Written Answers. - Road Traffic Offences.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

186 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people fined since 1998 to date under the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963; the encouragement which is given to people to ensure that, irrespective of vehicle type, they are visible at night time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12443/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell):

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following number of persons were convicted or had charges proved or order made without conviction for vehicle lighting offences:

Year	Lighting RegulationsPedal Cycles	Lighting RegulationsMPVs
1998	934	4431
1999	798	4084
2000	660	3661
2001	348	2486

Statistics in respect of 2002 and 2003 to date have not yet been compiled and are not readily available.

I am also informed by the Garda authorities that the enforcement of the vehicle lighting regulations does not discriminate in respect of vehicle types. Enforcement is based on legal compliance to ensure proper visibility of vehicles at night and improve road safety. As the Deputy will be aware, the National Safety Council conducts awareness campaigns from time to time to highlight this issue.