Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 2

Written Answers - Car Theft.

Seán Haughey

Question:

405 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether it is appropriate for Garda stations in the Dublin metropolitan region and elsewhere to employ the services of private recovery and crash repair companies to recover and store stolen vehicles at the request of the gardaí resulting in the victims of crime having to pay additional costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13978/01]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that when stolen cars are located the owners are informed accordingly and it is then the responsibility of the owner to recover his or her car. I am also informed that, on occasions, due to circumstances, such as the extent of the damage to the stolen car or the inability to contact the owner, it is necessary for the Garda authorities to make arrangements for the removal of the car. This is carried out by availing of the services of a private contractor to have the car towed to a compound. This is the practice in all Garda divisions throughout the State.

In this regard, I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are a number of private contractors throughout the country who provide a towing and storage service. These contractors are normally located close to a Garda station and can provide a quick response enabling the gardaí to resume providing a policing service to the community rather than remaining with a vehicle until other arrangements could be made. I do not consider that use of Garda resources to recover such vehicles in place of present arrangements would be a justified use of scarce Garda resources.