Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 233: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of mountain bikes available to An Garda Síochána; his views on whether, particularly in the context of community policing and otherwise, there is a need for more of them; the average cost to purchase same; and if he has proposals to provide more of them. [38239/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Mountain Bike Unit (GMBU) was established in June, 2001. It commenced in two locations, Tallaght and Raheny. Eleven bikes were initially issued to each location. I have been further informed that, at present, there are 180 mountain bikes in use throughout the country. Plans are now in place to further increase the numbers in the GMBU. The Garda authorities have recently taken delivery of an additional 80 bikes which will be allocated on a nationwide basis. There is a contract in place for the on-going supply of mountain bikes to the Garda organisation. I am also informed that the average cost of a mountain bike is €700. All members allocated to mountain bike duties are provided with specialist clothing for that purpose.

Garda management state that Mountain Bike Units are engaged in mainstream policing, in conjunction with Community Policing Units, concentrating on areas such as parks and laneways, which are more easily accessed by such transport and supplement beat and other mobile patrols. The Mountain Bike Units have been very successful in tackling anti-social disorderly behaviour in parks and estates. They work well in conjunction with other Units due to their ability to respond quickly and effectively and provide a high visibility presence.