asked the Minister for Local Government if he is satisfied that existing safety regulations covering the use of tractors and agricultural equipment are adequate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tractor Safety Regulations.
9.
I am concerned only with accidents arising out of the use of vehicles in public places, and the following should be taken in that context. I am satisfied that in the interests of safety, it is desirable to make regulations under the Road Traffic Act, 1961, making it compulsory to have safety frames fitted to agricultural tractors and I propose to do so after I have consulted the various interests as to the most suitable date or dates for the introduction of the measure in relation to new and existing vehicles. I am also considering making regulations under the Road Traffic Act which would prohibit the carrying of passengers on tractors. In accordance with the usual practice, details of the proposed regulations will in each case be published in advance to enable the public to furnish their views.
I am not aware of any of any case for effective amendment of the existing regulations regarding vehicles or attachments which could be regarded as covered by the phrase "agricultural equipment."
Surely the Minister is aware that the earliest available date is the date on which it should be introduced and does he not agree that in view of the fact that this has been raised to my knowledge about six times in the last three years something has got to be done about it immediately, otherwise we will be putting down questions in 12 months time and getting the same reply?
No, I do not think you will. The Minister has stated in this reply that he thinks regulations are desirable and proposes to make them.
He told me 12 months ago that he was consulting various interests.