Patrick Costello
Question:1180. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice for the number of e-scooters and other vehicles seized by An Garda Síochána. [38378/23]
View answerMonday, 11 September 2023
Questions (1180)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including all operational policing matters. As Minister, I have no role in these matters, nor can I direct the Commissioner with regard to them.
I can, however, assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to building stronger, safer communities and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda Síochána is central to this policy. This commitment is demonstrated by the unprecedented provision of over €2 billion to the Garda Vote this year, which is allowing for sustained and ongoing recruitment and investment in new equipment and new vehicles.
I am assured that the Commissioner keeps the allocation of these resources under continued review, in line with crime and population trends, to ensure their optimum use.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 took effect from 31 July 2023. Since then, there have been 2,073 incidents whereby a vehicle was detained or seized on public roads. 15 of these incidents involved an e-scooter.
I am advised that these figures are based on incidents which occurred from 1 August 2023 to 29 August 2023, inclusive. All information contained in this report is based upon operational data from the PULSE system as was available on 30 August 2023 and may be liable to change. I am also advised that vehicle detentions or seizures are not confined to those detained or seized under section 41 of the Road Traffic Act.