Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
275. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Transport his plans to make the wearing of high-visibility clothing a legal requirement for pedestrians and cyclists due to the high level of pedestrian fatalities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1396/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has responsibility for the promotion of public awareness campaigns and for the advancement of education specific to the safe use of roads. I have therefore referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
My Department is of the view that encouraging the use of protective gear such as helmets and high visibility clothing is better achieved by way of educational rather than punitive means. The RSA promotes the use of high visibility clothing for road users and in recent years has distributed several million high-vis vests, armbands and rucksack covers to pedestrians and cyclists.
