asked the Minister for Justice whether he will state (a) the number of fatal accidents caused by motor cars and motor buses in the Free State during the period of twelve months ending 1st September, 1929; (b) the number of cases in which the drivers of the vehicles causing such accidents were returned for trial, and the number of convictions for manslaughter.

The information asked for in this question is as follows:—

1.—(a) No. of persons killed by motor cars, 66.

(b) No. of drivers of motor cars returned for trial, 7.

(c) No. of such drivers convicted of manslaughter, none.

Three drivers are awaiting trial.

2.—(a) No. of persons killed by motor omnibuses, 40.

(b) No. of drivers of motor omnibuses returned for trial, 1.

(c) No. of such drivers convicted of manslaughter, none.

In practically all cases of fatal road accidents the Gárda Síochána instituted criminal proceedings against the drivers concerned, but informations were refused by the District Justices except in those cases shown above.

In view of the extreme urgency of this matter can the Minister say when it is proposed to introduce a Bill dealing with the traffic?

I could not mention any particular date. The Bill is in charge of the Minister for Local Government.

Very shortly.

It is extremely urgent.

Arising out of the reply, would the Minister state if any calculation has been made of the number of accidents that followed his action in ordering that the speed limit rule be not enforced?

The answer is in the negative.