asked the Minister for Justice if he can state what measures, if any, the Gárda Síochána in Mayo have taken to check the speed of buses in that county; whether he is aware that only one stop-watch has been placed at their disposal for the whole county, as stated by the Gárda authorities in Mayo; and whether, in view of the seriousness of this matter as it affects the ratepaying public, the Minister will take the necessary steps to provide an adequate supply for the county.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - BUS SPEEDS IN MAYO.
The measures taken by the police in Co. Mayo to check the speed of omnibuses are similar to those employed generally throughout the Saorstát. One stop-watch was issued to divisional headquarters, which made arrangements for the establishment of secret controls in the various districts comprised in the division, the stop-watch being passed as required to the officer concerned. In view of the recent growth in motor omnibus traffic in Mayo, it has been decided to allocate another stop-watch for use in that division.
I dare say the Minister is aware that the road mileage in Mayo is 3,700. I would like to know if he considers that one stop-watch is of any use whatever to the Gárda to check the speed of motors. In addition, I would like to know from the Minister if he considers that one stop-watch is sufficient where the length of the county is eighty miles and the breadth fifty miles, and where hundreds of thousands of pounds have been spent on road-building and maintenance. Then, I would like, A Chinn Comhairle, with your permission, to read a letter I have here from the Chief Superintendent.
The Deputy cannot read a letter now.
This is from the Chief Superintendent.
No matter whom it is from.
I would like to appeal to the Minister to do something to assist us, seeing the amount of money that is already expended.
The question has been already answered.
I think I told the Deputy that a second stop-watch has been issued. I do not agree that one stop-watch is no use. There have been proceedings brought on several cases in the county.
Perhaps the Minister would say what the cost of the stop-watch is that was provided in the case?