Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 4

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Joe Higgins

Question:

183 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason two traffic sergeants were seconded to training personnel of a private firm (details supplied) in parking control by-laws and court procedures in Dublin. [10545/99]

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

The background to the issue referred to by the Deputy is the Government decision of 26 July 1995 whereby the Government agreed to the transfer of responsibility for the traffic services in Dublin city, including the tow-away services operated by the Garda Commissioner, to Dublin Corporation.

With regard to the "seconding" of two traffic sergeants to training personnel of a private firm, I am informed by the Garda authorities that this relates to the transfer of responsibility for the tow-away service, referred to above from the Garda Commissioner to Dublin Corporation. I understand the two sergeants attended a training programme and gave presentations on the practical problems likely to be encountered by employees of the firm referred to by the Deputy who carry out the towing of vehicles on behalf of the corporation. I have been assured by the Garda authorities that there was a minimum amount of Garda time involved which resulted in a smooth transfer of the towing function.