Vol. 495 No. 4
332 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the use of motorbikes rather than patrol cars in policing road safety in view of the economic factors relating to manpower and operational costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20447/98]
The Garda fleet throughout the country currently comprises approximately 1,200 motor cars and 200 motor cycles. The operational cost of motor cycles generally tends to be higher than that of motor cars and relatively speaking, a motor cycle is also a high cost item in terms of purchase. This is particularly true in the case of high c.c. special motor cycles.
Experience has shown that each category of vehicle is suitable for particular purposes. The Garda authorities consider that the current mix of vehicles in the fleet is adequate in present circumstances. However, the appropriate mix for the fleet is reviewed by the Garda authorities on a regular basis.
