Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2019
256. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to review the decision by which Irish Coast Guard vehicles will not be authorised to use blue warning lights and sirens when on recuse missions; the reason these were prohibited from use by the organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10966/19]
View answerThere is no change in the policy in relation to use of blue lights and sirens on Coast Guard vehicles. Under SI 694 and 695 of 2011, Coast Guard vehicles can be fitted with blue lights and warning devices. Arising from a safety review internally, the Coast Guard issued a clarification to its volunteers in relation to how these blue lights and warning devices (sirens) should be used on public roads. This instruction sets out the existing position as regards their use while driving on public roads. The issue of training Coast Guard volunteers and full-time staff in the correct and safe use of Blue Lights and sirens is being addressed as part of the Coast Guard’s Safety and Risk Work Plan.
Any legislative changes in relation to the use of blue lights and sirens would require a policy assessment which would have to take account, inter alia, of the need to balance the safety of staff, whether full-time or voluntary, members of the public as well as those to whom the Coast Guard is responding.
