Vol. 555 No. 5
363 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when it is proposed to introduce the Garda cycle unit which has been announced for Limerick City; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19288/02]
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the initial Garda mountain bike pilot project was established on 5 June 2001 in two Garda districts – Tallaght and Raheny. Following evaluation, the Garda Commissioner has directed the extension of the project further to include Limerick and Galway cities and four additional districts in Dublin. Work on training additional personnel and the acquisition of the necessary equipment is progressing. I am further advised that selection of personnel for training in advance of the extension of the project to the selected locations is ongoing and that it is anticipated that training for the selected personnel will be completed in early 2003. Arrangements are currently being made for the purchase of bicycles and the appropriate clothing and equipment. A precise commencement date for Limerick is not currently available.
