The legislative basis for speed limits in this jurisdiction is in the Road Traffic Act 2004. This Act sets out a number of default speed limits for certain classes of roads, and permits local authorities to apply special speed limits in particular circumstances.
The default speed limit for built-up areas is 50 km/h. However, local authorities have the option of applying a 30 km/h - the lowest special speed limit under the current legislation - where they feel it is appropriate. I have been active in encouraging local authorities to adopt this 30 km/h limit where possible. Earlier this month, I made an addition €2 million available in funding to this end.
The House this week debated a Private Members Bill to amend the legislation on speed limits, proposed by Sinn Féin Deputies. That Bill proposed a 20 km/h speed limit for residential roads, and a new 20 km/h special speed limit. As I indicated in the debate on that Bill, I can agree in principle to a 20 km/h limit, but am concerned about the practical implications of making it obligatory.
Further work on the practicalities and implications of such a change is, I believe, also necessary, in order to be sure that we get the legislation right.
Work is now underway on the drafting of a Road Traffic Bill 2015, the General Scheme of which was approved by the Government last week. I intend to examine the issue of speed limits in residential areas with a view to including proposals in that Bill.
