Minister faces criticism after ‘crucial’ road safety Bill delayed until Dáil returns

Irish road safety campaigners have sharply criticized Minister of State for Transport Seán Canney for failing to introduce the National Vehicle and Driver File (NVDF) Bill before the Oireachtas summer recess. This delay is particularly concerning as the national road death toll has reached 100, surpassing last year's total for the same period.

Advocates are angered by the postponement of the NVDF Bill, which is designed to create a central register of vehicles and drivers. The legislation intends to grant gardaí, Ireland's police force, full access to the NVDF via their mobility apps, including motorists' driving license photographs. It also proposes sharing collision data between gardaí, the Department of Transport, and local authorities to identify and address areas prone to accidents.

Susan Gray, co-founder of the road safety group Parc, expressed deep disappointment. "I’m heartbroken that yet again I’ve listened to the powers that be and believed every word," she said. "Gardaí can’t confirm a motorist’s identity because they cannot access real-time information and dangerous drivers are driving away." The bill also includes provisions to abolish the requirement for motorists to display tax discs, as gardaí have digital access to this information.

Minister Canney had previously stated in February that the NVDF Bill was a priority and aimed for enactment before the summer recess. The legislation, which was approved in July 2024, was merged with the Roads Bill to provide for information sharing with local authorities. Despite assurances that the bill was sent for drafting and anticipated for enactment by year-end, concerns remain about its progress. Social Democrats transport spokesman Aidan Farrelly called for an intensified effort, stating it is clear the Department of Transport is not acting with sufficient urgency.

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I’m heartbroken that yet again I’ve listened to the powers that be and believed every word. Gardaí can’t confirm a motorist’s identity because they cannot access real-time information and dangerous drivers are driving away.