Road Safety.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 July 2006

Thursday, 6 July 2006

Questions (466)

Michael Lowry

Question:

465 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a safety device compulsory in other jurisdictions for motor-cyclists; his views on the device; if he has plans to introduce the device here and if subsidies will be provided for same; if he will liaise with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform concerning equipping Garda motorcyclists with such devices (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27945/06]

Written answers

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I am aware that such personal protective devices for motorcyclists are on the market. However, at this stage, I have no plans to make their wearing compulsory by motorcyclists nor to make funding available to assist with their purchase. I am not aware of any EU Member State in which their wearing is compulsory. It would be a matter for the Garda Commissioner to decide whether Garda motorcyclists should wear the devices.