194. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport what planning he has carried out to ensure there will not be an increase in road fatalities and injuries as a result of the forthcoming proposed changes to alcohol licensing hours; if he will publish the evidence on which any such plans are based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14007/24]

Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Transport:  The forthcoming changes to alcohol licensing hours being brought forward by the Department of Justice may entail a need to consider enforcement arrangements such as Garda deployment. These are, however, a matter for the Garda Commissioner. If there are any implications in terms of Garda resourcing, this would be a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice. My Department's role is to ensure that there are appropriate rules in the Road Traffic legislation for Gardaí to enforce. Strict rules will encourage and ensure the safe use of the road for all users. In this regard the necessary legislation against intoxicated driving is already in place.