Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 78: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he intends to take arising from the call by the Garda Representative Association for the provision of crush-proof Garda patrol cars, particularly in view of the number of occasions in which Garda cars have been rammed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16295/04]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Safety is an extremely important factor in the purchase of patrol cars for the Garda fleet. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the commissioner has directed that a working group should be set up under the chairmanship of a chief superintendent with the following terms of reference:

''Examine and make recommendations, taking into account cost factors and value for money, on the most suitable vehicle(s) for use in the Force particularly as Patrol Cars including the feasibility of obtaining 'Purpose built' or modified vehicles, having regard to the safety of Garda drivers and observers including others being conveyed in Garda vehicles and other road users.''

I look forward to the early recommendations of the working group and the important contribution they will undoubtedly make to the safety of Garda patrol cars.