Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 1

Written Answers. - Traffic Regulations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

622 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to review the appropriateness of speed restrictions on different roads since the introduction of the penalty points system; and his proposals to improve the signage at speed limit changeover points in order to better alert motorists of their obligations. [15614/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

While speed limits are determined either directly under the Road Traffic Acts or under regulations which I may make under those Acts, decisions on the application of particular speed limits at specific locations are matters for the elected members of the major local authorities. They are empowered to make by-laws relating to speed limits following consultations with the Garda Síochána and with the consent of the National Roads Authority in the case of national roads and motorways.

A comprehensive review of speed limits 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 and in relation to particular categories of vehicles, the signage used to indicate speed limits and the implications of the adoption of metric values for speed measurement. 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. In the context of that review my Department has written to local authorities requesting them to review the appropriateness of the speed limits in each of their areas and to make changes where warranted.

Mary Upton

Question:

623 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport his views on the effectiveness of a congestion charge for Dublin as has been implemented in London; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15632/03]

Denis Naughten

Question:

631 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to introduce charges on motorists entering the city centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15862/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 623 and 631 together.

I have no plans at present to introduce charges on motorists entering Dublin city centre. Work is under way in the Dublin Transportation Office on a regional demand management strategy. This study will include consideration of the potential contribution of a wide range of measures, including congestion charging, to better demand management. The DTO study will take account of the reported success of the London congestion charging scheme in reducing traffic demand and congestion levels. I expect the report to be completed later this year.