Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 7 September 2026
421. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the consultation process prior to the drafting of the National Vehicle and Driver File Bill 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61746/26]
View answerThe National Vehicle and Driver File, Road Traffic and Roads Bill 2026 updates the legislation underpinning the Department of Transport's National Vehicle and Driver File database to include GDPR provisions and also underpins the Check My Vehicle website that allows members of the public to access certain vehicle data held on the File. Consultation with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) took place in relation to these elements of the Bill.
The Bill removes the requirement to display a paper motor tax disc. In respect of these amendments, consultation took place with the Department of Finance, An Garda Síochána (AGS), the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the Local Government Management Association (LGMA)/County and City Managers Association, Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, Office of the Revenue Commissioners, Comptroller & Auditor General, Local Government Audit Service and the Car Rental Council of Ireland.
The Bill removes the current 12-month maximum and allows for open-ended declarations of non-use of a motor vehicle. Consultation took place with the Department of Finance on these amendments as motor tax receipts accrue to the Exchequer.
The LGMA was consulted on amendments to the Road Traffic Act 2004 allowing for the setting of certain special speed limits.
The Bill allows for the consideration of a charge of careless driving where a jury acquits a defendant of a charge of dangerous driving. Legal advice was obtained in this matter and the view of the Director of Public Prosecutions sought.
The Bill amends the Roads Act 1993 to provide a basis for the sharing and processing of road traffic collision data with local authorities to enable them to assess safety risks and target maintenance on public roads. Consultation was undertaken with AGS, the RSA, the Roads Management Office, the LGMA and the DPC.
The Bill provides clarity on the application of penalty points in multi-offence incidents where a driver is disqualified. Legal advice was obtained on this matter.
Finally, the Bill provides for operators of mobile camera vans to provide certificate evidence in court when a fixed charge notice is not paid rather than having to provide testimony in person. Consultation took place between the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and AGS on this provision.
