Road Safety Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 March 2013

Tuesday, 12 March 2013

Questions (687)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

687. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is concerned at incidents involving the collision of vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians with Luas trams, in particular in Dublin city centre; if he has been briefed by Veolia on this matter; his views on whether stricter penalties may be necessary for careless behaviour while driving, cycling or walking in view of the serious negative impact such collisions may have on commuter safety and significant interruptions to Luas services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13026/13]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Road Traffic Acts and the regulations made under those Acts, provide for various prohibitions and restrictions in respect of the use of our roads, including those shared road spaces such as the LUAS tramways. Where a driver, cyclist or pedestrian commits an offence under the Acts or regulations, there are a number of sanctions available to the Courts to deal with such offences. Careless driving, for example, carries 5 penalty points on conviction or at the discretion of the Judge, a consequential disqualification may be applied instead. Various fines and terms of imprisonment may also apply. Enforcement of the legislation is a matter for the Garda Síochána. I do not have any plans to amend the legislation at this time and believe that the matter raised by the Deputy is best dealt with through increased road safety awareness and education rather than providing for more stringent penalties.