Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
370. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Transport to engage with the Road Safety Authority to prohibit the use of LED automatic high-beam dipping systems, given the danger they pose to motorists on rural roads; and to restrict the use of LED headlight bulbs in vehicles that were not originally designed or approved for such lighting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6622/26]
View answerAs Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that light emitting diode (LED) and high intensity discharge (HID) headlights are known to provide greater brightness, improved colour rendering, increase efficiency and, in the case of LED in particular, longer performance life.
I am aware that concern has been expressed in some quarters in relation to the use of LED and HID headlights. It is worth noting that the use of these headlights in the EU?is regulated by the European type-approval system. Type-approval requires the vehicle or component to meet specific safety standards in order to be placed on the European market and used in any Member State.??Accordingly, if a headlight has been type-approved and entered into service, it is considered safe to use within the EU.
During national roadworthiness testing, a vehicle's lighting system is tested to ensure it is in full working order and correctly aligned for the safe performance of the vehicle. Factors which can contribute to headlamp glare include misaligned aim, dirty or damaged headlamps or the use of incorrect bulbs or unapproved components.
As outlined, the standards for these lights are regulated at EU level. However, as with any concerns over vehicle safety, I am willing to consider evidence-based policy reviews in relation to their use. I understand that the UNECE Working Party on Lighting and Light-Signalling has been established to investigate this issue, and the EU Commission have confirmed that it is part of its newly established task force. Currently, the task force is conducting research on the causes of glare and will provide recommendations to the Working Party when the report is completed. Both I and the Department will be guided by that work.
