The issue of defective Takata airbags was urgently brought before the Transport Committee today, with the aim of advancing the matter to a vote in Parliament’s Plenary next Thursday.
Specifically, the proposed law stipulates that dealerships will be required to notify citizens whose vehicles are equipped with defective airbags. Before the import of vehicles, a registry must be maintained by both the dealership and the Department of Road Transport.
If a citizen owns a vehicle with defective airbags, they will be legally obligated to immobilise the vehicle until the airbags are replaced. Failure to comply will constitute a criminal offence.
Members of Parliament expressed concerns that thousands of vehicles could be immobilised once the law is enacted, but they stressed that there is no alternative as the matter concerns public safety.
A matter of urgency
MP Stavros Papadouris of the Ecologists’ Movement highlighted during the committee meeting that recalls are an urgent issue, particularly following a recent incident involving exploding airbags from another manufacturer in Cyprus.
He noted that Parliament followed all relevant guidelines provided by the Legal Service and addressed the concerns of all stakeholders to ensure the law is as comprehensive as possible.
“It is widely acknowledged that thousands of vehicles on the road are difficult to locate. The website of the Department of Road Transport has been updated, but distributors are scheduling appointments months in advance,” he emphasised.
Papadouris also pointed out a lack of information and underscored the need for safeguards to be established for the future. “The legislation is extremely strict, but there is no other option. Before registering a car in Cyprus, the registry must be in place and held by both the dealership and the Department of Road Transport,” he stated.
MP Nikos Sykas of DISY added that the state also has a responsibility to provide “remedies” to citizens who must immobilise their vehicles. “The government can offer incentives and engage in social policy,” he suggested.
“Empower the Department of Road Transport”
A representative from the Department of Road Transport (TOM) stated that the Minister of Transport has called for the proposal to move forward in the Plenary next Thursday.
The representative stressed that the proposal would strengthen the TOM’s ability to enforce the law. “We are preparing decrees regarding the procedure and format of certifications. The mechanical system is being developed and will be operational by the end of 2025, improving this specific proposal.”
He acknowledged that the legislation would lead to the immobilisation of thousands of vehicles. “This is a reality. A mother requested an exemption from the TOM so she could take her children to school. We remain firm: no exemptions will be granted to anyone. This is a matter of safety,” he added.
The representative also mentioned that the TOM is considering measures and suggestions to address the costs incurred by vehicle owners whose cars are immobilised.
Also read: New brand of faulty airbags: “My grandkids were just in the car”
Source: Charalambos Panayiotou – Sigmalive
