Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 October 2007
481 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will roll out the fixed and mobile speed cameras throughout the country via private contractors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23822/07]
View answerIn accordance with EU Directives, national public procurement procedures and relevant legislation, a Request for Information (RFI) for the provision and operation of safety cameras on behalf of An Garda Síochána was published on the Government's procurement website on 24 November, 2006. Following the evaluation of the submissions received in respect of the RFI a total of six companies/consortia were short-listed in February 2007 to participate in the next stage of the process.
A detailed Request for Tender (RFT) was issued to the six short-listed candidates, with a closing date of 3 August, 2007 set for receipt of tenders. The tenders are currently being evaluated in accordance with the criteria set out in the RFT. It is expected a preferred bidder will be selected in the very near future. Contract discussions will then commence with a view to finalising a contract. It is intended that roll out of cameras will commence in early 2008.
482 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if comprehensive investigations are being made into the causes of road accidents in every case; if reports are produced as a result of such investigations; if so, if these reports will be published; the action that will be taken as a result of such investigations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23836/07]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that traffic collisions are subject to a thorough investigation in accordance with Garda traffic collision investigation policy. Collisions resulting in material damage only are not investigated, except where an offence is alleged or disclosed, a State-owned vehicle is involved or the requirements of section 106 of the Road Traffic Acts 1961-2006 have not been complied with.
I am also informed that in the investigation of fatal and life-changing traffic collisions An Garda Síochána recognises that the public is entitled to the highest possible standard of service and professionalism. A Forensic Collision Investigator therefore attends at the scene of every fatal road traffic collision and every collision where information indicates that there is a likelihood of a fatality resulting from such collision. On conclusion of the investigation, files are prepared and submitted to the Law Officers as appropriate.
I am further informed that information resulting from Garda investigations of traffic collisions is shared with appropriate agencies, including local authority engineers, with a view to proactively contributing to improving road safety and reducing the number of road traffic collisions through a preventative approach. Data in respect of all traffic collisions is also provided to the Road Safety Authority, which publishes an annual report, Road Collisions Facts. The Garda District Officer (Superintendent) has overall responsibility for the investigation of fatal traffic collisions within his or her District and s/he has access to all necessary resources, including the forensic collision investigation capability, within An Garda Síochána to do so.
