Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 February 2014
253. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding tinted windows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6037/14]
View answerUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the delivery of the National Car Test. The RSA has overall responsibility for the operation, oversight, development, quality assurance and delivery of vehicle testing arrangements. The testing function is carried out by Applus+, since January 2010, under a contractual arrangement with the RSA.
There are many reasons for the requirements in regard to window tint, including that excessively tinted windscreens or front side windows present a significant safety hazard for vehicle drivers, their occupants and other road users. Visibility is greatly reduced, particularly for night time driving and at times of low light. They may also hamper the work of An Garda Síochána in the detection of driving offences alongside other enforcement issues such as driver recognition in relation to criminal activity.
Tint films tend to be quite easily removed and can be replaced with a compliant film which would block UVA light and meet the requirement of not less than 65% light transmission. There is no limit on tint level in the rear windows. The light transmission limit set for type approval of new vehicles and vehicles entering into service is 70%. All cars that have been registered since 1998 are type approved.
While I am very conscious of the needs of people with medical conditions associated with light sensitivity; installing excessive tinting to front side windows and windscreen can represent a significant safety risk. It is for this reason EU Type Approval and national legislation sets a maximum permitted tint level. I regret, therefore, that I do not intend to amend legislation to allow for exemptions.
I am aware, however, of a situation in which the RSA agreed an arrangement in relation to a case similar to that outlined by the Deputy. I would suggest that the RSA be contacted by the person referred to by the Deputy.
