Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2013
484. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the areas that the GoSafe speed cameras have operated in each year since their introduction; his plans to expand same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2486/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Garda authorities that excessive or inappropriate speeding continues to be a significant contributory factor in road traffic collisions, including fatal and serious injury collisions. A targeted approach to speed enforcement is being undertaken in order to significantly reduce the incidence of fatal and serious injuries and improve road safety. To this end, An Garda Síochána, in conjunction with the National Roads Authority, completed an extensive analysis of the collision history on the road network. Sections of road have been identified where a significant proportion of collisions occurred whereby speed was deemed the primary contributory factor.
Based on this analysis, a list of speed enforcement zones has been developed with the aim of providing information to motorists in order to raise awareness of speeding in these zones. An Garda Síochána utilises these zones in order to direct speed enforcement activity, in a proportionate and targeted manner.
I am also advised that safety cameras only operate on sections of road which have a history of collisions occurring where speed was a contributory factor. The locations of these speed enforcement zones are in the public domain and are available on the Garda website www.garda.ie.
Speed enforcement zones are continually reviewed in light of survey data, collision history and local feedback to ensure that enforcement activity is properly targeted. Surveys continue to be conducted to ensure the appropriate deployment of safety cameras on roads which have been identified as subject of inappropriate speed and where fatal and serious injury collisions continue to occur.
