asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the traffic hazard posed on the Newry Road, Dundalk, by ineffective hazard lamps used on road blocks; and if he is aware of the danger to travellers as well as to Garda personnel and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Lighting on Road Blocks.
23.
The Garda authorities inform me that every effort is made to ensure the safety of members of the force and road users during the operation of Garda checkpoints. In addition to the use of hazard warning lamps and reflective signs, all members on duty at checkpoints during the hours of darkness are required to wear flourescent protective clothing and to be in possession of a torch.
As regards the effectiveness of the hazard warning lamps in use at the checkpoint on the Newry Road, Dundalk, the Garda authorities say that arising from complaints that the standard hazard warning lamps on issue to the force were not fully effective at that particular location, the matter was taken up with the suppliers of the equipment who produced a modified version of these lamps. The modified lamps have already been tested at Dundalk and further modifications are being considered in consultation with the local Garda officers so as to ensure the optimum safety for members of the force and road users alike.