Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
66. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the work plan for 2024 by his Department, in conjunction with other agencies, to improve road safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4580/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030 has the target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030 and achieving Vision Zero by 2050.
The second annual review of the Road Safety Strategy took place in recent weeks, where road safety partners and agencies reviewed progress in the context of reversing the alarming trends in road fatalities. In addition to closing out Phase 1 of the strategy in 2024, I have prioritised certain actions for the coming year, including development of a national strategy for camera-based enforcement, addressing the multiple learner permit issue and extending and expanding road user education.
Following the publication of the Speed Limit Review last September, work has commenced on implementation of the recommendations with road safety partners, including Local Authorities. My officials are working on guidelines and legislation to give effect to these recommendations as soon as possible.
As part of implementing the Speed Limit Review, the Road Traffic Bill 2024 is expected to be enacted before the end of March. This a concise and focused piece of legislation introducing safer default speed limits on national secondary roads, rural roads and in built up areas, mandatory drug testing at the scene of serious traffic collisions and reforming the penalty points system so motorists receive multiple sets of penalty points where multiple offences are committed.
Options are also being considered for a campaign to encourage fleet owners to install alcohol interlock devices in their vehicles. Furthermore, and in response to the rising trend in fatalities through 2023, last October my Department conveyed sanction for the Road Safety Authority to spend additional funds on increased public awareness campaigns.
Road safety is a foremost priority for me. Everyone is entitled to use our roads and, importantly, to be safe on our roads.
