Garda Transport.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 July 2008

Wednesday, 9 July 2008

Questions (294)

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

318 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there are serving members of An Garda Síochána, detailed to drive Garda cars who are doing so without a full driving licence; if so, the number and the locations of same; the number of serving members of An Garda Síochána detailed to drive Garda cars who are doing so without a full driving licence and have completed an advanced driving course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28096/08]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that Members of An Garda Síochána are required to hold a full driving licence when driving Garda vehicles. Garda personnel are authorised to drive official vehicles if they have (a) successfully completed a standard driving course, or (b) in the absence of a standard driving course, by way of authorisation of a Chief Superintendent.

To apply for (a) or (b) a member of An Garda Síochána must first be the holder of a valid local authority class B driving licence.

Questions Nos. 319 and 320 answered with Question No. 312.