Road Signage.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004

Wednesday, 17 November 2004

Questions (286, 287)

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

325 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if the introduction of metrification will take place as planned on 22 January 2005. [28693/04]

Jack Wall

Question:

335 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport if the programme for updating of speed limits and road signage will be completed by the set date in regard to all local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29113/04]

Written answers

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 325 and 335 together.

It is intended that metric speed limits be in place on 20 January 2005. A metrication changeover board is working to that timeframe to co-ordinate the changeover and provision of metric speed limit signs across 34 city and county council areas. The programme envisages that approximately 58,000 speed limit signs will be in place by 20 January next. The changeover to metric values and a new system for speed limits, which will be introduced in association with metrication, will be supported by new road traffic legislation currently being considered by the Houses of the Oireachtas.