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Road Traffic Accidents.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004

Tuesday, 9 November 2004

Ceisteanna (259)

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

321 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he is taking in conjunction with the Garda to combat road carnage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28164/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Government's road safety strategy 2004-06, which forms the framework within which road safety policy will be developed over the next few years, sets out a number of ambitious targets and strategies. The Garda Commissioner is fully committed to the enforcement strategies laid out in the strategy. Many of the targets and actions recommended are already at various stages of implementation or planning, including the private operation of speed cameras and the outsourcing of the collection of fixed charges.

I recently announced the Government approval for an extra 2,000 gardaí. Additional resources provided to the Commissioner will be used to optimum effect and in a focused way. I have asked the Garda Commissioner to examine the question of resource allocation. Among the areas being examined is the number of gardaí deployed in traffic units. The increase in the number of gardaí will enable extra manpower to be allocated to the traffic units which enforce road traffic legislation and contribute to reducing road fatalities and casualties throughout the State. In particular, it will make possible an increase in targeting enforcement on high risk locations and times and days of the week, in line with Garda operational policy.

In addition, the Commissioner is considering structural changes in this area of Garda activity with the aim of increasing the effective use of personnel and equipment resources available. I will announce changes in this area in the near future.

I understand from the Garda authorities that collision-prone locations are being identified on an ongoing basis, with the assistance of the National Roads Authority and local authorities. These data serve as input into the enforcement activities of the Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána have carried out Operation Lifesaver since 1998, focusing on three main collision causation factors, excessive speeding, non-compliance with seat belts and driving while intoxicated. The annual Christmas campaign focusing on drink driving will commence at the end of this month.

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