I have been assured by the Garda Authorities that, as bus lanes are considered to be a critical element of the public transport system, special Garda attention is afforded to them.
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that between 35 and 40 motorcycles patrol the main arteries and orbital routes throughout the Dublin metropolitan region on a daily basis and that part of the operational plan implemented is the policing of quality bus corridors and bus lanes. I understand that, in general, there is broad compliance with the bus lane regulations by the majority of motorists and where offences take place appropriate action, including prosecutions are taken. In this regard, during 1999, a total of 6,480 prosecutions were instituted for bus lane infringements. The Deputy may be interested to know that the gardaí avail of closed circuit television and traffic control cameras to monitor bus lanes and general motorist behaviour.