Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
77. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider introducing curve warning signs with recommended speed limits, as used in New Zealand (details supplied), for Irish roads to improve general road safety on a phased basis to offset costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39562/23]
View answerAs part of Action 6 of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy a review was undertaken to examine the framework for setting of speed limits in Ireland including specific consideration of the introduction of a 30km/h default speed limit in urban areas. The group was established in later 2021. This review follows from a previous review undertaken in 2013.
The review group, as part of its work carried out an assessment of the existing framework of speed limits including the current guidance document for the ‘Setting and Managing of Speed Limits in Ireland’. The group also looked at best practice internationally as well as carrying out a modelling analysis of potential options.
This review is complete and published with an implementation plan to be prepared to progress the recommendations of the review. As a priority the Guidelines for Managing Speed Limits in Ireland will be updated.
The Road Traffic Act of 2004, as amended, sets out the current legislative basis for the setting of speed limits. The Act applies ‘default’ speed limits to different classes or categories of road and allows for local authorities to intervene and set ‘special speed limits’, within limitations, on roads in their area. The making of bye-laws to set 'Special Speed Limits' is a reserved function of the elected members of a local authority. Section 95 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, as amended, provides for the use of traffic signs.
As a result of the work of the review group of 2013 ‘Cautionary’ Speed signs were introduced for use in specific circumstances if required. Such circumstances arise where it is considered that normal warning signs are not sufficient and are set out in the Traffic Signs Manual. As a result of the 2023 review further revisions to the Traffic Signs would be expected.
