The funding for the Garda Síochána is provided on a national basis through Vote 20 which is divided into a number of subheads dealing with various cost items. Although work is under way to implement the devolution of budgets within the Garda, it is not possible at this time to identify the funding for operational units in isolation. I am, however, satisfied that my Department has put in place the necessary resources to enable the gardaí to carry out their duties with respect to traffic.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there is a total of 457 members attached to traffic units in Garda divisions throughout the country. These members are employed on full-time traffic duties. In addition to these members, all members employed on uniform duties are also involved in the enforcement of road traffic legislation and regulations. There are currently six mobile speed detection units, that is, GATSOs, in operation throughout the State and approval has been given for the purchase of a seventh. In addition to these units, the gardaí use up to date speed detection equipment such as laser speed detection devices, radar speed detection devices and Lastec in car video systems. They also have access to alcometers and evidential breath testing machines, supplied by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.
The question of fixed cameras – including future funding – is being addressed. A pilot programme using four fixed cameras, rotated around 20 sites in Louth-Meath, is under way. The pilot programme and the future policy regarding fixed cameras is currently being examined by a sub-committee of the inter-agency high level group on road safety. This sub-committee, which includes representatives of my Department, the Garda Síochána and the National Roads Authority, is developing policy in relation to siting and other operational issues concerning fixed cameras. A total of 34 extra motorcycles were added to the Garda fleet last year to enhance traffic management and enforcement of road traffic legislation.