Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 445: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average number of gardaí involved in the investigation of each serious or fatal road accident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19524/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that collisions vary widely in nature and degree of seriousness and the number of personnel who attend and the action taken will vary accordingly.

The duties of Garda personnel at the scene of collisions include rendering assistance to injured persons, and, if necessary, to procure medical and spiritual aid and arrange for their removal to hospital. Duties also include preserving the scene, that is, preventing interference with vehicles, debris, tracks, marks, etc. until properly noted, reducing traffic obstruction as soon as possible, when necessary arranging for the temporary diversion of traffic and noting and collecting all available evidence at the scene.

I am also informed that the circumstances surrounding any loss of life as a result of a road traffic collision are thoroughly investigated by the Garda Síochána in accordance with the instructions set out in the Garda Code.

The District Officer (Superintendent) for the area where a fatal collision occurs is responsible for the investigation. He/she ensures sufficient and appropriate personnel are assigned to the investigation and that all aspects of the investigation are thoroughly carried out. All events preceding the collision, including the actions and activities of any driver, passenger or pedestrian, as appropriate are fully inquired into.

Where necessary, full use is made of local and national media for appeals for information from any person who may have witnessed the collision, or have information relevant to it. Where there is a surviving driver the District Officer will forward the completed investigation file to the Law Officers for direction.