Denis Naughten
Question:44 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to expand Operation Lifesaver throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6209/01]
Written Answers. - Road Safety.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda National Road Safety Initiative 2001 falls within the terms of the Government's National Strategy on Road Safety 1998-2002 and consists of a targeted series of national traffic and vehicle law enforcement operations. The Garda National Road Safety Initiative 2001 is also operating under the umbrella of Operation Lifesaver 1997-2002 which is focusing on speeding, drink driving, seat-belt compliance and dangerous-careless driving.
Operation Lifesaver is nationwide and is run on a continuous basis. It is monitored by the Garda National Traffic Bureau based at Garda headquarters which is headed by a chief superintendent and is the subject of continuous review.
In relation to the 2001 campaign four key national issues have been identified. They are speeding, drink driving, seat-belt compliance and vulnerable road users.
Of course the primary purpose of all operations to be undertaken this year is increased road safety and a reduction in the number of collisions and fatal accidents on our roads, through changes in driver and pedestrian behaviour. This will be achieved with a high degree of Garda visibility in three broad ways, by enforcing traffic and vehicle law; by helping to educate the public into safer road behaviour; and by trying to maintain the free flow of traffic.
In keeping with the Government Strategy on Road Safety 1998-2002, Operation Lifesaver, which has run since 1997, will remain the principal operation during the current year. This will be complemented and enhanced by a number of Garda operations which will focus on specific offences and road user behaviour, for example, traffic light infringements, pedestrian safety, and motorcycle offences, in addition to any local strategies or operations planned.
I have been assured by the Garda authorities that, while each operation has a specific focus, all vehicles may be subject to close scrutiny and any offences disclosed will be appropriately dealt with.