Cecilia Keaveney (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 234: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an evaluation of the pilot Garda traffic corp for Inishowen was undertaken; the findings of such a review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6214/06]

Cecilia Keaveney (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 235: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the pilot traffic corp in Inishowen will be made permanent in view of the fact that its pilot date has now passed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6215/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 234 and 235 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that in response to the disturbing number of road fatalities in Buncrana district, a Garda traffic corps unit was established in the district on a pilot basis with effect from 20 October 2005. The unit was in addition to the traffic corps personnel already operating in the Donegal division. An interim evaluation has been conducted which indicates that there has been a reduction in the number of road traffic fatalities and an increase in the number of road traffic offences detected in the Buncrana district since the introduction of the unit.

I am further informed that Garda management is satisfied that the visibility provided by the traffic corps unit has had an influence on the reduction of certain crimes in the area, such as burglary and public disorder. I am also informed that, following this review, a decision has been made to extend the pilot scheme until 15 March 2006 when a further evaluation will be carried out.