Michael Ring
Ceist:236 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment the plans or regulations, if any, he will introduce to help reduce the number of deaths on our roads. [13865/97]
Written Answers. - Road Deaths.
The spiralling rate of death and injury on our roads represents a situation which is unacceptable.
Addressing the problem of road accidents is a complex issue for which there is no single solution. I will ensure that the policy of developing initiatives in focusing on the areas of enforcement, education, engineering and encouragement will be continued. The emphasis on the enhanced role of local authorities as the focal point for the road safety together strategy will remain.
I would like to take this opportunity to commend the Garda Commissioner on the creation of the special National Traffic Policy Bureau, which has been given the specific task of assisting in the reduction of road accidents. The bureau's first specific initiative, which will target the Louth-Meath area, will be launched on 14 July.