Jimmy Deenihan
Question:141 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for a Garda traffic corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23068/03]
Written Answers. - Garda Traffic Corps.
Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:144 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the proposals made to date with regard to the establishment of the dedicated traffic corps, promised in An Agreed Programme for Government; when he expects that the corps will be established and operational; the reason for the long delay, especially when the programme for Government promised that the consultation process would be completed within six months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23124/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 141 and 144 together.
The programme for Government contains a commitment relating to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps. As I have already indicated in this 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 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 Garda 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.
A working group has been established to urgently consider the options available in terms of progressing this proposal. This group will be chaired by my Department and will comprise representatives from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Office of the Director of Traffic.
Question No. 142 answered with Question No. 75.