Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2004
511 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself with progress towards the fulfilment of the promise in the joint programme of the establishment of a traffic corps. [17535/04]
View answerA working group has been established, comprising of officials from the Department of Transport, my Department and the Garda Síochána, to examine the options available in establishing a dedicated traffic corps. I understand the Minister for Transport will chair a meeting of the group shortly. The issue to be decided on is the solution that will give the best results in terms of a positive impact on road safety and traffic management, as well as the best value for money. The involvement of non-Garda personnel is one of the options under consideration, but it would involve substantial legal and financial implications. Issues such as the structure, functions and method of operation of a traffic corps, together with the legal basis for any civilian involvement, also require detailed consideration.
There is a dedicated traffic unit in every Garda division with special responsibility for traffic law enforcement. A new unit, managed by the chief superintendent in Dublin Castle, is operating on a pilot basis in the Dublin metropolitan region with positive results. Approximately 520 gardaí are attached to 40 divisional traffic units. It should be remembered that uniformed gardaí throughout the State are involved in traffic law enforcement as part of their duties.
