Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 March 2004
123 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in establishing a dedicated traffic corps as promised in the programme for Government; the outstanding issues to be resolved; when he expects proposals to be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6799/04]
View answerThe 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 Síochána in regard to 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.
A working group has been established to urgently consider the options available in terms of progressing this proposal. This group comprises representatives from the Department of Transport, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Office of the Director of Traffic.
