THE DEPARTMENT OF Transport could be set to follow the lead of the UK in issuing a ban on drivers wearing the new Google Glass product before it is launched to the public next year.
The new wearable technology is currently being trialed by Google with a small number of developers testing the glasses which provide smartphone-like information in handsfree format via voice commands.
Already, the government in the UK has this week indicated that it will seek to ban the use of technology on the roads there, issuing penalty points to those who are in breach of the ban.
Only a small number of people the UK are thought to be currently using the device. It is not known if any Irish developers have the glasses though a number have tested them in recent months.
In response to a query from TheJournal.ie, the Department of Transport here said that it is concerned about the use of the new technology.
A spokesperson said: “The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport considers all such issues in terms of their impact on road safety.
“The Department is concerned that the use of this technology in its current form would distract motorists and therefore could represent a safety hazard.”
It said it is now in consultation with the Road Safety Authority, gardaí and “other key stakeholders” ahead of issuing a formal policy decision.
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