asked the Minister for Justice what will be the duration of the period for the rerouting of traffic in east and west directions along the Dublin city quays; whether he is aware that this rerouting has resulted in heavy city traffic proceeding through Parkgate Street and Benburb Street with consequent danger to the children of the Benburb Street flats; and whether any extra police for traffic duty purposes have been detailed for this particular area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rerouting of Dublin Traffic.
151.
Mr. O'Leary
While the rerouting of traffic in this area was made necessary by the fact that the Dublin Corporation was undertaking extensive road reconstruction work on the North Quays, the specific arrangements made were designed to tie-in with the existing one-way system in the central city area, including part of the North and South Quays, so that, if the new arrangements worked satisfactorily, they could be retained permanently. It is possible, therefore, that the Garda Síochána will in due course recommend that the rerouting should be retained permanently.
As a safety precaution, all parking on the south side of Benburb Street, on which the flats are situated, has been prohibited and additional gardaí have been assigned to the area. All important intersections are controlled by gardaí from 8.15 a.m. to 7 p.m. and mobile traffic patrols circulate in the area from then until late at night.
Mr. O'Leary
Will this new arrangement whereby extra gardaí are on duty at this point be permitted if the other traffic arrangements are permanent?
I should think so.
Question No. 152 postponed.