Govt to set up new ministerial road safety committee

Transport Minister Martin Cullen has announced plans to set up a new ministerial committee to oversee the Government’s road safety initiatives.

Speaking at a road safety conference in Dublin today, Mr Cullen said he would be chairing the new body, which would also include the Ministers for Justice, Finance and Health.

The committee is being established to streamline different road-safety initiatives and ensure an integrated approach to the issue between all government departments.

Meanwhile, Mr Cullen also confirmed that a ban on the use of mobile phones by motorists will be included in new road safety legislation he is planning to bring before the cabinet shortly.

At present, Gardaí can only prosecute motorists using mobile phones if they are also driving carelessly.

Mr Cullen said his new Bill would also pave the way for random breath-testing of motorists and the tougher enforcement of existing road safety laws.