Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
311. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport the estimated percentage reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on the roads by changing default speed limits in built-up areas from 50km/h to 30km/h, based on available data; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63722/25]
View answerIt should be noted that the default speed limit for built-up areas remains at 50km/h at this time. Last month, I issued a direction to Local Authorities to commence a review of their urban road networks with a view to increasing the number of 30km/h zones, where this lower speed limit is appropriate and in accordance with the statutory Guidelines issued by my Department. These changes will be made at the discretion of Local Authorities, respecting their devolved powers, rather than by legislative default.
Lowering speed limits is part of the Safe Systems approach at the heart of our Road Safety Strategy. The aim is to reduce speeds to safe, appropriate levels for the roads being used and the people using them. The human body is vulnerable to collisions at high speeds, even when travelling in a motor vehicle. Cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists are even more vulnerable, and at even lower speeds.
Research commissioned by the RSA indicates that approximately 5% of pedestrians hit by a vehicle travelling at 30km/h will be killed. By contrast, this risk increases to 29% of pedestrians when struck by a vehicle travelling at 50km/h. The safer urban speed limits to be introduced by 30km/h bye-laws in the current implementation phase of the Speed Limit Review will contribute to a safer urban environment for all road users.
