asked the Minister for Justice whether he will state, in connection with the new cycle patrol system recently introduced in the Garda Síochána, what, if any, extra allowances are made for the use of bicycles and accessories and for meals purchased while on such duties.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allowances for Gardaí.
I presume that the question refers to the increased use of cycling patrols in the metropolitan division.
Sergeants employed on the supervision of beat duty and members employed on beat duty which necessitates the use of bicycles are paid cycling allowance at the rate of £4 per annum in accordance with Article 8 of the Garda Síochána Allowances (Consolidation) Order, 1947.
Cycling beats are in use mainly in suburban areas.
The necessity for purchasing meals does not arise as each member is allowed an hour for a meal which, if he is married, he may obtain at home or, if single, at the mess of his station.
Does the Minister consider that the allowance of £4 per annum is sufficient for the upkeep of a bicycle for 12 months? In view of the fact that on night work a Garda would use a torch which would cost 1/3, that they cover about 30 or 35 miles per day and in many cases have to be away from home for meals, does the Minister not consider that the matter is worthy of revision?
Mr. Boland
I do not know about the torch part of it but for a bicycle I think it is enough.
The position is as I have said.