Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2020
133. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of 17 September 2020, when his Department will finalise the development of a speed limit appeals process by which a member of the public can query a speed limit to the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41297/20]
View answerAs you are already aware, the most recent speed limit guidelines were issued in March 2015 following a review by a speed limit review working group. Local Authorities (in conjunction with TII in respect of National Roads) are able to amend and set Speed Limits as appropriate and in accordance with the Speed Limit Guidelines for different sections of the road network as required and adopt bye-laws under a reserved function.
This is an on-going process for local authorities and it can require a review by local authorities when speed limit guidance is updated or when local authorities believe that safety can be improved by better matching certain speed limit zones to existing guidance/best practice. In this context the 2020 Programme for Government has committed to review and reduce speed limits, where appropriate, to address both road safety issues and carbon emissions, and ensure greater compliance.
Ireland’s road network is extensive and inconsistent, which means that a ‘one size fits all’ solution for Speed Limits for the 100,000 kilometre road network is not always possible and queries will arise. My Department is currently developing a speed limit appeals process whereby a member of the public can query or appeal a speed limit to the local authority.
I envisage the proposed appeal process will be submitted for Ministerial approval in Q1 of 2021.
