Marc Ó Cathasaigh
Ceist:
145. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Justice the number of fixed charge notices and penalty points issued for driving in cycling lanes in each of the years 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023, in total and on a geographical basis, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24266/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. Unfortunately the information was not received on time. I will contact the Deputy directly once the information is available.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 145 of 29 May 2024 when you sought: “The number of fixed charge notices and penalty points issued for driving in cycling lanes in each of the years 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023, in total and on a geographical basis, in tabular form.”
As you will recall, I sought the information from the Garda authorities and undertook to contact you again once the information was to hand.
As you will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including all operational policing matters. As Minister, I have no role in these matters, nor can I direct the Commissioner with regard to them.
I can, however, assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to building stronger, safer communities and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda Síochána is central to this policy. This commitment is demonstrated by the unprecedented provision of over €2.35 billion to the Garda Vote this year, which is allowing for sustained and ongoing recruitment and investment in new equipment and new vehicles.
I am advised by the Garda authorities, between 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2023, that 5 Fixed Charge Notices have issued for driving across or along a cycle track. The figure provided is taken from the FCPS system on 29 May 2024 is operational and, as such, is liable to change.
In respect of the number of penalty points issued, I hope you can appreciate that the Department does not record data relating to the number of penalty points issued, as this is a function of the courts. The Courts Service has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtasenquiries@courts.ie.
