Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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Question 580: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if every assistance will be given to introduce the use of bicycles by gardaí at a Terenure Garda station in Dublin 6W. [22051/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Garda mountain bike unit was introduced on a pilot basis, on 5 June 2001, in the Tallaght and Raheny Garda districts of the Dublin metropolitan region, DMR. In February 2002 a review conducted by the Garda authorities found that the deployment of Garda personnel on mountain bikes has proven to be successful in tackling and responding to certain types of offences.

Since that time the Garda mountain bike unit has been expanded both inside and outside the Dublin metropolitan region. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that approval has recently been given by Garda management for the establishment of a mountain bike unit in Terenure district. The training of selected personnel will begin in the near future and following the successful completion of this, and allocation of the necessary equipment, the unit will become operational.

Mountain bike units have been very successful in tackling anti-social disorderly behaviour in local parks and estates and work well in conjunction with other units. Overall, the units have proven to be very successful to date due to their commitment, ability to respond quickly and effectively and capacity to provide a high visibility presence.

Mountain bike units have made a significant and positive contribution to a proactive approach in tackling crime. Garda management have received very positive feedback from the community on the work of these units.