Dedicated Traffic Corps
325. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce a specialised traffic corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27143/03]
Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The programme for government contains a commitment relating to the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps. As I have already indicated to the 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 on the establishment of a dedicated traffic corps is being progressed. The question of the relationship that the corps will have with the Gardaí 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 consider the options available in terms of progressing this proposal. This group comprises of representatives from the Department of Transport, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, An Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Office of the Director of Traffic.