asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the large number of vehicles parked in the Phoenix Park, Dublin on the occasion of open air auctions in the racecourse precincts; and the steps he proposes to take to alleviate this hazard to the public.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Phoenix Park.
33.
I am aware of the car parking problem which has arisen recently in the Phoenix Park as a result of the racecourse markets. While I do not consider it a hazard to the public I am concerned about the interference with the enjoyment by the public of the amenities of the Park and about the potential danger to the grasslands. I am at present considering what steps should be taken to deal with this problem.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary explain why parking is allowed on those occasions while ordinary people who frequent the park for pleasure have had notices affixed to their cars because they were slightly over the grass margin?
I am discussing this matter with the Garda and the authorities concerned.
34.
asked the Minister for Finance whether the roads in the Phoenix Park, Dublin are in public ownership; if so, when they were taken into public ownership; whether they are subject to speed limits; and, if not, whether he will introduce such speed restrictions to protect the public, particularly young children, who frequent this public amenity.
The ownership of the Phoenix Park including the roads is vested in the Minister for Finance while the management and control of the park is vested in the Commissioners of Public Works. The Main Road of the Park from Parkgate Street to Castleknock Gate is subject to a speed limit of 40 miles per hour and all other roads in the park are subject to a speed limit of 30 miles per hour in accordance with an order made under the Phoenix Park Act, 1925.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary say whether the Garda are empowered to enforce speed limits within the park?
The Garda are empowered under a by-law and there have been successful prosecutions on a number of occasions. I am glad that the Deputy raised this matter because I intend to look at the whole position. I am fully aware of definite abuse by some motorists using the road. I am also raising the matter with the local authority concerned.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree, now that the Castleknock area is built up—it has become one of the "in" places to live, even Government Ministers reside there——
That is not a supplementary question.
Because Government Ministers reside there?
No, even Government Ministers reside there. Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree that because this area is built up there is now more need than ever to enforce speed limits? It has become almost a racetrack during the day. Would he also agree that improved lighting facilities are needed?
I am examining the whole position. There are speed limits.
They are not observed.
I am examining the situation to see what further action is possible.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say when he expects to have the results of this examination?
There will be no delay in the matter.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary let me have the results?
I certainly will.