Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 18 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 6

Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

90 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport the proposals made to date with regard to the establishment of the dedicated traffic corps, promised in the programme for Government; when he expects that the corps will be established and operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16875/03]

John Deasy

Question:

143 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport his plans for a Garda traffic corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16677/03]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

158 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for a Garda traffic corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16705/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan):

I propose to take Questions Nos. 90, 143 and 158 together.

The programme for Government contains a commitment relating to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps. As I have 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 on the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps is being progressed. The question of the relationship that the corps will have with the Garda and, in particular, whether it will be under the overall control of the commissioner is central to the development of this proposal.

The establishment of a dedicated traffic corps, which is independent of the Garda, 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 on the structure of traffic policing in these countries. The responses received are currently being examined.

Question No. 91 answered with Question No. 78.