Statistics relating to road accidents, based on information provided by the Garda Síochána, are published by the National Roads Authority in its annual road accident facts reports. The most recent report is in respect of 2002 and that report, with reports relating to previous years, is available in the Oireachtas Library.
The 2002 report shows that, in respect of Dublin city, four motorcyclists were killed and 235 were injured. This compares with a total of 44 motorcyclists killed and 971 injured nationally during that year. Of that total figure, 12 drivers and two passengers killed were not wearing helmets and 231 drivers and 18 passengers were injured while not wearing helmets.
The use of bus lanes is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus-based public transport. The regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.
An overriding concern is the carrying capacity of bus lanes and the potential that their primary role to provide bus priority could be undermined if other vehicles are allowed access. However, representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes with regard to a wide range of other road users including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001. As part of that review, the views of the director of traffic in Dublin City Council, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Garda Síochána were sought. All of those bodies suggested there should be no change to the current position. I do not have any immediate proposals to review the question of extending access to bus lanes to other road users.
