Garda Transport.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2006

Tuesday, 20 June 2006

Questions (378)

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

413 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been dawn to the circumstances where gardaí who do not hold a B driving licence are driving in the performance of their duties as members of the Garda, as a result of having secured authorisation from a chief superintendent; the number of gardaí within the force to which this situation applies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23684/06]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As the Deputy will be aware, a class "B" driving licence is the standard licence for cars and vans. Members of An Garda Síochána are not permitted to drive official vehicles of these types unless they hold at least a full class "B" licence, whereupon they may be authorised by Divisional Officers or Chief Superintendents to do so, subject to being otherwise deemed suitable. This is known as "Chief's Permission".