Vol. 449 No. 4
136 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Justice the number of prosecutions against motorists for failing to ensure that safety belts are worn by themselves and their passengers, particularly children, in each of the last three years; the steps, if any, taken by Garda to enforce the legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3783/95]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the statistics in relation to seat belt offences committed prior to 1993 were not compiled separately, but that they are recorded in the category of "other offences".
Since 1993, they are compiled separately and the annual report of the Garda Síochána for that year shows that 7,345 persons were prosecuted resulting in 5,769 convictions. The 1994 figures are not yet available.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the enforcement of the seatbelt law is given a high priority by the Garda throughout the country; attention is paid to breaches of the regulations during special road traffic enforcement campaigns and throughout the year.
