Motorcycle Training
136. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport the steps he has taken to introduce initial compulsory training for motorcyclists; and if motorcyclists with provisional licenses will be required to display L-plates. [16284/06]
Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): A working group, including motorcycle interests has been considering the appropriate standards that will apply to compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists. Overseeing the introduction of such training will be the responsibility of the proposed Road Safety Authority. It is also my intention that a requirement that motorcyclists with provisional licences must display L-plates will be introduced.
The necessary regulatory provisions are currently under consideration having regard to the need for amendments to the Road Traffic Acts and a recent Supreme Court decision which found that primary legislation underpinning regulations to transpose EU Directives must, notwithstanding any powers already contained in the legislation, contain a power to make regulations for the purpose of transposing EU Directives.