asked the Minister for Justice what instructions have issued to the Garda Síochána in regard to the inspection of haulage licences.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inspection of Haulage Licences.
12.
Instructions issued to the Garda Síochána are confidential and are not for publication. I am prepared to say, however, that instructions have in fact recently been issued to the Garda Síochána stressing the need for vigilance in the matter of evasion of the Road Transport Acts, and outlining special measures that are being taken to secure a more effective enforcement of the Acts. These measures are likely to result in the more frequent inspection of haulage licences and some inconvenience to licensed hauliers is unavoidable. I am aware, however, that the general body of licensed hauliers, so far from raising any objection, are entirely in favour of these new measures.
Would the Minister not think it more advisable that the members of the Garda Síochána should be called to Dublin for instruction in the prevention and detection of crime rather than that they should harass unfortunate people who are trying to earn a livelihood?
Is the Minister aware that police patrol cars are following these hauliers into farmyards and factory premises, and making inquiries not alone from farmers and factories already concerned, but also from any other contacts these hauliers may have?
Any steps taken are necessary to secure the enforcement of the law and that is all I am considering at the moment.