Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has signed a Joint Declaration of Intent with transport ministers and representatives from across Europe aimed at accelerating the safe deployment of automated vehicle technology.
The declaration, signed in Luxembourg at the Transport Council earlier this week, brings together 15 European countries to establish a cross-border testbed for automated vehicles, allowing governments, regulators, researchers and industry partners to work together on developing common standards, testing procedures and regulatory approaches.
The initiative is designed to ensure that Europe remains at the forefront of innovation in automated and connected transport while improving road safety, supporting sustainable mobility and creating new economic opportunities.
Speaking following the signing, Minister Canney said: “This declaration is about preparing for the future of transport in a practical and responsible way. Automated vehicle technology is advancing rapidly across the world and it is important that Europe works together to ensure it is developed safely, consistently and in a way that benefits citizens and businesses alike.”
“By joining this initiative, Ireland will have a seat at the table as European countries develop the frameworks and standards that will underpin the next generation of transport systems. It will allow us to learn from international best practice, contribute our own expertise and ensure that Irish interests are represented as this technology evolves.”
The declaration focuses on cooperation between participating countries on testing, regulation, safety standards and real-world deployment of automated transport solutions. It also aims to encourage greater collaboration between governments, industry and research organisations to support innovation and competitiveness across Europe.
Minister Canney said the agreement also presents significant opportunities for Ireland’s growing transport technology sector.
“Ireland already has world-class expertise in this area. In my own constituency, Valeo in Tuam is a global leader in advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous vehicle technology, employing hundreds of highly skilled people. Companies like Valeo demonstrate that Ireland has the talent, innovation and technological capability to play an important role in shaping the future of automated mobility.”
The declaration does not create any legal obligations on participating countries but establishes a framework for cooperation on the development and deployment of automated vehicle technologies across Europe.
