asked the Minister for the Environment if he is considering the introduction of lower speed limits, synchronised traffic light systems and energysaving building codes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Traffic Regulations.
49.
Regarding speed limits, proposals relating to speed limits may arise later this year at EC level in the context of road safety, exhaust emissions and energy considerations as a result of action being pursued by the Transport, Environmental and Energy Councils of the EC. It must be pointed out, however, that present maximum speed limits in most other EC member states are higher, and in some cases considerably higher, than the limits currently applicable in this country. I have no proposals to introduce lower speed limits. I should like to point out that the present general speed limit of 55 mph represents a reduction on a former limit of 60 mph which applied up to 1979. In that year the limit was reduced to 55 mph as part of an energy conservation package.
Regarding traffic lights, the provision and operation of traffic lights is a matter for individual road authorities. Road authorities are, however, given every encouragement to provide traffic light synchronisation systems where appropriate. A substantial measure of traffic light synchronisation has already been provided by Dublin Corporation in the central Dublin area with computer-linked signals in a system knows as urban traffic control (UTC). The cost of UTC has, since 1982, been financed fully by State grants paid by the Department of Communications. Outside the area covered by the UTC system, the scope for synchronisation is limited, having regard to factors such as the type and volume of traffic and the frequency of junctions. However, partial synchronisation of traffic lights has been provided by the relevant road authorities on major routes leading into and out of major centres. These include sections of the Naas, Lucan, Bray and Blessington roads in the Dublin area, the approach to Cork city from the Dublin road and the Bandon and Douglas roads. As regards building codes, part ‘H' of the proposed building regulations provides for thermal insulation standards for domestic buildings for energy saving purposes.