149 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has satisfied himself that the practice of drivers on tour buses using public address systems while driving is safe; and if there are any regulations under consideration that would prohibit this and ensure that there was a separate tour guide on the bus. [30163/00]

While there are no regulations specifically addressed to the safe use of public address systems on tour buses or other public service vehicles, there is a general obligation on the drivers of such vehicles to drive with due care and attention and without endangering public safety. Failure to do so is an offence under the Road Traffic Acts. Having regard to this position, my Department has, in the context of its permitting of certain buses or bus types, imposed requirements for the safe location of controls for public address apparatus and for self supporting microphones for drivers' use.

I intend to keep this subject under review and will consider carefully any representations in relation to it.