Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 January 2004
163 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the establishment of the dedicated traffic corps, promised in the programme for Government; when he expects that the corps will be established and operational; the reason for the delay, especially when the programme for Government promised that the consultation process would be completed by the end of 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2130/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe programme for Government contains a commitment relating to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps. As I have already indicated in this House, I support the implementation of this proposal through the formation of a corps that will be separately identifiable and visible.
A consultation process involving my Department, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Síochána in relation to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps is being progressed. The question of the relationship that the corps will have with the Garda and in particular whether it will be under the overall control of the commissioner is central to the development of this proposal.
The establishment of a dedicated traffic corps which is independent of the gardaí, would require the introduction of legislation, in particular to establish powers and functions of the corps and its accountability.
A working group has been established to urgently consider the options available in terms of progressing this proposal. This group comprises representatives from the Department of Transport, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Office of the Director of Traffic.
