Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Feb 2001

Vol. 530 No. 5

Written Answers. - Horse Drawn Carriages.

Noel Ahern

Question:

152 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on horse drawn hackney carriages which at the request of the gardaí have been designated an area on St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, for parking purposes; his further views on his Department being associated with the provision of facilities for them given that the carriages do not have public liability insurance; his further views on whether there is a danger in his Department being held responsible for any accident caused by or involving these carriages; if he will bring forward regulations in regard to insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4397/01]

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

I am informed by Garda authorities that the Garda Commissioner has responsibility, in agreement with the local authority, for nominating designated stands for horse drawn carriages. The Commissioner's functions in this regard are carried out by the Chief Superintendent, Traffic Department, Dublin Castle and I have no role in the matter.

I understand that a site for parking horse drawn carriages was sought due to the re-introduction of horse drawn carriages onto the streets of Dublin as a tourist attraction. Numerous sites were inspected. The site on St. Stephen's Green was agreed by An Garda Síochána in the Traffic Department, Dublin Castle, and the City Engineer for traffic at Dublin Corporation as the most suitable site that did not impact adversely on traffic, local business and pedestrians.

As I stated in my recent reply to Question No. 151 on 31 January 2001, there is no legal obligation to have insurance on these vehicles but it is prudent for any business concern to have appropriate insurance cover though this decision is ultimately a matter for the individuals concerned. I have no function in relation to the issue of insurance cover for horse drawn carriages.