Vol. 568 No. 1
627 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to introduce a traffic corps; the plans he has to introduce a driving test for those who clock up 24 penalty points; the timescale envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15858/03]
The programme for Government contains a commitment relating to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps. As I have already indicated in the House, I support the implementation of this proposal through the formation of a corps that will be separately identifiable and visible. A consultation process involving my Department, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Síochána in relation to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps is being progressed. The question of the relationship the corps will have with the Garda, in particular whether it will be under the overall control of the Commissioner, is central to the development of this proposal. The establishment of an independent dedicated traffic corps independent of the Garda Síochána would require the introduction of legislation, in particular to establish powers and functions of the corps and its accountability.
In addition to the consultation process, my Department has written to all EU member states in relation to the structure of traffic policing in these countries. The responses received are being examined. The penalty points system, which is provided for in the Road Traffic Act 2002, is structured so that where a person accumulates 12 penalty points or more within a period of three years, he or she is disqualified for six months. Therefore, it is not possible for a driver to accumulate 24 penalty points under the structures provided for in the Act.
