Terence Flanagan
Ceist:166. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to introduce a drug testing law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44711/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 20 November 2014
Ceisteanna (166)
Freagraí scríofa
The law against drink driving has been strengthened a great deal in recent years. At the same time, the issue of driving under the influence of drugs has been a growing concern.
The Road Traffic Act 2014 provided for the introduction of roadside impairment testing by An Garda Síochána. This testing consists of simple, physical, cognitive tests to assist the Gardaí in determining the presence of intoxicants in drivers and whether a driver is capable of having proper control of a vehicle. The necessary Regulations which will underpin the introduction of this testing will be introduced in the coming weeks.
In addition, I intend to bring forward proposals to allow for roadside testing of drivers for the presence of drugs as part of the next Road Traffic Bill. I propose to build on existing legislation for driving under the influence of alcohol by extending the current mandatory alcohol testing checkpoints to include drug testing. The Bill will also provide for a number of other measures which will further improve safety on our roads. I anticipate that the Heads of this Bill will be submitted to Government for approval in the coming weeks.