Michael Kennedy (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)
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Question 1126: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí participating in bicycle patrols in each of the stations in Swords, Malahide, Balbriggan, Skerries and Lusk/Rush; the duties they perform in this role; the length of time each have been in the role; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36067/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that details of the Mountain Bike patrols in Swords, Malahide, Balbriggan, Skerries and Rush Garda stations are as follows:

Swords: There are three members participating in mountain bike patrols. Two members completed training in February 2007 while the third was trained in June 2007.

Malahide: There are three members participating in mountain bike patrols. Two members completed training in February 2007 while the third was trained in June 2007.

Balbriggan: There are two members participating in mountain bike patrols. One Garda completed training over 4 years ago. The second member completed training in June 2007.

Skerries: There are two members participating in mountain bike patrols. Both members completed training in February 2007.

Rush: There is one Garda participating in mountain bike patrols who has recently been trained.

Members on mountain bike patrol perform duties as directed by their supervisors which includes active patrolling of public order hot-spots, and the detection of crime and other offences, including the prevention of anti-social activity. Members on these duties may also be deployed at venues or sporting events which attract large numbers of people. Given the high visibility and unrestricted access to areas where patrol vehicles cannot access, mountain bike patrols have proven to be an effective method of patrolling. They are also ideal for patrolling park land and open areas.