Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 16 Dec 1993

Vol. 437 No. 4

Written Answers. - Imported Second-Hand Cars.

Paul McGrath

Ceist:

114 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many second-hand cars which have been imported into this country have failed a vehicle test in their country of origin; if this poses a threat to road safety here; the plans, if any, he has to impose compulsory testing on imported cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. M. Smith)

I am not aware of any evidence of the practice referred to.

The Road Traffic (Control of Supply of Vehicles) Regulations impose a duty on commercial suppliers of all new or used motor vehicles to ensure that the vehicles which they supply comply with the Regulations on the safe construction, equipment and lighting of vehicles. "Commercial suppliers" would include importers, distributors and motor dealers. Any specific allegations that unroadworthy vehicles are being imported, together with supporting evidence, should be addressed to An Garda Síochána who are responsible for enforcement of the Regulations.

EC Council Directive 91/328 of 21 June 1991 requires those member states, including Ireland, which do not have a system of regular roadworthiness testing for cars already in operation to have such a system fully operational by 1 January 1998. In line with the Programme for a Partnership Government, I am preparing proposals for the implementation of the directive in Ireland in relation to the domestic car fleet and imported used cars.