Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
375. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the current position regarding commencement of the new Garda powers contained in the Road Traffic and Roads Bill 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38628/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 was signed into law by the President on the 23 June 2023. This is a large piece of legislation which covers a multitude of topics. Under the Programme for Government, it was agreed that the anti-social use of scramblers would require additional legislative measures to ensure the safety of both the user and the wider public.
Among many issues, the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 aims to adequately tackle the current anti-social use of scramblers and quads via three measures:
• Under Section 5(k), dangerous driving has become an offence everywhere, previously it only applied to public places;
• Section 5(p) grants new Garda powers of seizure
• Under Section 11(b) there will be a new power to provide in regulations for the prohibition or restriction of the uses of classes of vehicles in particular places.
A commencement order was signed into law on 31 July 2023 giving effect to Sections 5(k) and 5(p). The Department of Transport will consult with relevant stakeholders in the context of preparing regulations under Section 11(b). It is important that these regulations have the desired effect, and that the correct areas and territories are targeted.
