Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 389: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress that has been made regarding the introduction of a nationwide network of private speed cameras following the Cabinet's approval of the scheme over the summer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28042/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Legislation is being drafted by my colleague, the Minister for Transport, which will enable the engagement of the private sector in the provision and operation of speed cameras. The Garda Síochána, as the traffic law enforcement agency in the State, will be responsible for the outsourcing project. The Garda authorities inform me they have commenced preparatory work with regard to the tendering process. My Department and the Department of Transport are assisting the process.

The purpose of this initiative is to enhance overall road safety and help reduce the numbers of deaths and serious injuries on our roads. The performance criteria to be applied will be determined by the Garda Síochána, and the deployment of cameras will be focused on locations where there is an established or prospective risk of collisions. As well as making a significant contribution to road safety, this initiative will release Garda resources so that their enforcement efforts can be concentrated on other motoring offences which cause death and serious injury such as drink driving, dangerous driving and careless driving.

Selection of a provider will be made by way of an open and competitive tendering process, and a request for tender, RFT, document will issue following enactment of the necessary legislation. In accordance with EU and national procurement guidelines, this RFT will be published in the EU Journal and on the Government's procurement website. All tender proposals received will be evaluated on an individual basis in accordance with the criteria set down in the RFT.