§ Mr. TrimbleTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what consultation motor clubs are required to undertake with residents in respect of the closing of public roads for the purpose of motor sports events. [4025]
Mr. MurphyNone. However the promoter of a motor race for which the Department of the Environment is making a road closing order is required by the Road Races (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (SI 1986/1887 [NI 17]) to give adequate notice of the event. The order also requires the Department to ensure that public notice of the provisions of any road closing order are brought to the attention of the public.
§ Mr. TrimbleTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many times public roads in Northern Ireland have been closed in each of the last five years for the purpose of staging motor sports events. [4026]
Mr. MurphyThe number of road closing orders made by the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland was:
Year Road races Hill-climbs Kart races Total 1992 10 9 4 23 1993 10 8 4 22 1994 10 8 4 22 1995 10 8 3 21 1996 10 7 3 20
§ Mr. TrimbleTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what consultation is required between the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland, the Royal Ulster Constabulary and the Ulster Automobile Club with regard to the closing of roads in Northern Ireland for the circuit of Ireland rally. [4024]
Mr. MurphyThe Road Races (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (SI 1986–87 [NI 17]) requires the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland to consult the Chief Constable of the Royal Ulster Constabulary before making any road closing order in respect of a motor racing event. The Department is not required to consult the Ulster Automobile Club which is the promoter of the Circuit or Ireland Rally.