Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 339: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of company cars being recovered in the Tallaght area per day; the method of disposing of these cars; if he will report on discussions held with South Dublin County Council to identify a suitable site for these vehicles; and when the site will be in position. [24570/04]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that from 1 January to 8 October, a total of 411 vehicles were seized under section 41 of the Road Traffic Acts 1961-1994. I am further informed that these vehicles are disposed of in two ways. First, vehicles may be reclaimed by their owners on production of documentation indicating that the vehicle has the relevant motor tax and insurance and upon payment of the fees which have occurred since the date of seizure. Second, vehicles which are not reclaimed by owners are disposed of by way of scrappage once sanction has been given by the Garda Commissioner. This can happen with or without owner consent.

At present, all vehicles that have been seized are stored at Tallaght Garda station. I understand from the Garda authorities that the Garda national traffic bureau is examining the issues pertaining to the seizure, storage and disposal of vehicles seized under section 41. As part of this examination, the Garda national crime prevention office has held preliminary discussions with South Dublin County Council. The matter is being pursued by the Garda national traffic bureau.