asked the Minister for the Environment the steps he proposes to take to deal with the fact that road deaths in the second half of 1977 at 344 were the highest on record for a half year period.
Written Answers. - Road Deaths.
522.
While the figure quoted for the six month period referred to is disturbing, it will be noted that the provisional figure of 576 road deaths for the whole year, is, apart from 1976, the lowest since 1972. As the Deputy is aware, there was also a substantial increase in the number of vehicles on the roads. However, I wish to make it clear that I am anything but happy with the figures for death and injury on the roads.
But, until a detailed analysis of the accident information for 1977 has been made, I cannot say what special measures, if any, may be appropriate. Efforts to promote road safety in relation to the road, the vehicle and the driver will, of course, continue to be made by my Department, the local authorities and the National Road Safety Association assisted by the research activities of An Foras Forbartha, but it is well to remember that the individual road user, whether he be a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian, is at all times responsible for his own safety. A personal decision to exercise care, courtesy and consideration and to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol is the greatest personal contribution that can be made to road safety. A special responsibility rests on parents in relation to their children.