Thomas P. Broughan
Question:219 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for metric road speed signs; and if he will sanction 20 to 25 mph speed limits for driving within housing estates. [15061/03]
Written Answers. - Road Safety.
The process of metrication of speed limits forms part of a comprehensive review of speed limits that is currently under way. The review will address all of the major issues relating to speed limit policy including the range of speed limits deployed on roadways including roadways in residential areas, and in respect of particular categories of vehicles. The signage used to indicate speed limits and the implications of the adoption of metric values for speed measurement will also be central to the review.
A broadly-based working group has been established to carry out this review and it is intended that the review will be completed this summer. The working group's report will make recommendations relating to the timing and administration of the adoption of metric values and will assist in determining the appropriate legislative requirements needed to underpin those recommendations. Earlier this month, my Department, in conjunction with the Department of the Environment and Local Government and the Dublin Transportation Office, published traffic management guidelines. The guidelines manual, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas library, provides guidance on a wide range of issues including speed management and traffic calming on existing roads and the incorporation of speed restraint measures for new residential designs.