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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 17 Feb 1972

Vol. 258 No. 14

Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Untaxed Lorries.

54.

asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that a number of untaxed lorries are at present operating in the Dublin city area; and what action it is proposed to take in the matter.

The problem of untaxed lorries in the Dublin area receives the constant attention of members of the Garda Síochána attached to the Carriage Office. In addition, members of the Garda other than those attached to the Carriage Office give the matter attention in the course of the discharge of their general police duties.

In the year ended 30th September, 1971, the Carriage Office alone brought a total of almost 600 prosecutions in respect of offences relating to the taxation of lorries. While the number of prosecutions for such offences brought by other members of the Garda is not available, I understand that the figure would, in fact, be substantial. I think, therefore, that it is clear that the Garda are giving a good deal of attention to the problem.

Is the Minister aware that there are at least 27 English registered lorries operating at the moment at Dublin Docks and that these are not taxed? Is he aware that this matter has been brought to the attention of the Garda in the area? Some summonses have been brought but these have been quashed. I can give the Minister the numbers of four of the vehicles concerned and by the end of the week I can let him have additional numbers. If this practice is to be allowed to continue the people here who are paying heavy road tax will decide eventually that they are as entitled to operate in this way as are these other people.

The Deputy is making a statement again.

The Carriage Office alone brought 600 prosecutions in respect of the non-taxation of lorries last year. In addition to that gardaí who are not attached to the Carriage Office brought many hundreds more. It is not fair to say that prosecutions are not being brought. If there are any individual untaxed lorries operating at Dublin Docks and if Deputy Foley would be good enough to let me have their numbers I shall bring the matter immediately to the attention of the Carriage Office.

The Minister will bring prosecutions in cases where lorries are not taxed or licensed?

I will not bring the prosecutions but the Garda would do so where they have evidence.

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