Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2025
243. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider removing ‘km/hr’ from road speed signs and display numerical speed limits only, in line with the practice in many other EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32554/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department published the Traffic Signs Manual which provides guidance to Local Authorities on the implementation of traffic signage and road markings. All signs erected on public roads must be provided in accordance with the Traffic Signs Manual, which is available at www.trafficsigns.ie. The Traffic Signs Manual stipulates what traffic signs are to be used on Irish roads, their layout and symbols, the circumstances in which each sign should be used and the rules for positioning them.
It should be noted that the island of Ireland spans two separate jurisdictions which implement speed limits in kilometres per hour in the Republic of Ireland and miles per hour in Northern Ireland. Speed limit signs in the Republic of Ireland are displayed as 'km/h' and those in Northern Ireland display numerical speed limits only. This enables motorists to distinguish whether they are travelling in a jurisdiction which has implemented metric speed limits or imperial miles per hour speed limits. This therefore enhances road safety for all road users, especially those in border areas.
