Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 7

Written Answers. - Traffic Control.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

53 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will give serious and immediate consideration to the setting up of a Dublin traffic police force drawn from either the existing Garda force or from a special corps established specifically for the purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16864/97]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is within the Garda Síochána a traffic department based in Dublin Castle which has specific responsibility for the enforcement of the Road Traffic Acts and Regulations within the Dublin metropolitan area. The number of gardaí assigned to the traffic department are:

Superintendent	Inspector	Sergeant	Gardaí
1	4	13	104

The equipment available to the traffic department is as follows:

Vans	Cars	GATSO	Jeeps	Tow Trucks	Motor cycles
4	19	1	1	8	26

Other equipment on issue to the traffic department include car videos, laser and hand held speed guns.

I am satisfied that the existing structure is adequate to deal with traffic law enforcement in the city. I will, of course, ensure that the traffic department continues to be adequately resourced in terms of manpower and equipment to enable the traffic department to continue to deter motorists from breaking the law.

I should also draw attention to the appointment by Dublin Corporation of a director of traffic in accordance with the Government decision of 25 July 1995 under the Dublin Transport Initiative who will have responsibility for the traffic warden service, towing of vehicles and the introduction of wheelclamping. The traffic department will, of course, continue to enforce the Road Traffic Acts.