Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:722 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he intends to implement the direct access provision in respect of motorbikes. [21919/01]
Written Answers. - Traffic Regulations.
Novice riders of category A motorcycles are restricted to riding and gaining experience on lower powered motorcycles, those with a power output not exceeding 25 kW or a power to weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg, before being given access to higher powered motorcycles. This restriction applies for the period of the provisional licence in category A and for a period of two years after the granting of a category A driving licence. These arrangements are considered desirable in the interest of road safety and against the background of the disproportionately high accident and fatality rate of motorcyclists in Ireland compared to other categories of road users. Consequently, Ireland did not avail of the option under EU Directive 91/439 on driver licensing of allowing direct access to higher powered motorcycles at the age of 21. The progression arrangements for new motorcyclists will be kept under review in the light of motorcycle accident and fatality rates and the impact of the motorcycle training initiative being undertaken by the Irish Rider Training Association with support from my Department.