Sir, – I applaud any move to enhance the safety of road users, either walking or mechanically assisted.
The initiative reported by Conor Lally (“New roadside Garda checks planned for powerful e-bikes and e-scooters”, News, February 27th) should be welcomed by all.
However, there remains a large gap in road safety in Ireland as the Government continues to ignore 2014 European legislation requiring all two-wheel and three-wheel motor vehicles to undergo regular safety checks similar to National Car Test (NCT) checks on passenger cars.
Motorbikes, in particular, can be used by owners with impunity regardless of condition.
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Like most machines, motorcycles require regular maintenance, owners and riders can be oblivious to faulty brakes, dangerous tyres, etc, until it’s too late.
The Road Safety Authority statistics so far this year are very concerning, with motorcycle fatalities representing a disproportionate number in comparison to the total vehicle population.
At what stage will our Government take motorcycle testing seriously and get in step with the rest of Europe? – Yours, etc,
BRIAN MURPHY,
Past President,
Society of the Irish Motor Industry,
Dublin 6W.
