Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 321: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the report in a Sunday newspaper that the Garda traffic corps cannot reliably use its equipment for detecting speeding vehicles in wet and murky weather is correct; if any cases have been challenged on grounds of unreliability of equipment; if new equipment is being sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42205/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that all fixed and mobile speed cameras operated by the Garda Síochána can be used in wet and inclement weather. When visibility is poor, as in severe rainfall, heavy fog or snow, the operating range may be reduced. I am also informed that when a handheld speed detection device is being used offending motorists must be stopped by the detecting Garda as this device does not capture or retain an image of offending vehicles.

In severe weather conditions operation of such a speed detection device may not be safe for Garda personnel and motorists because of the extended vehicle stopping distances necessary due to road conditions associated with severe rainfall, heavy fog or snow. I am further informed that the Garda Síochána is satisfied with the capabilities of speed enforcement technologies in use and there are no plans to review the operation of this equipment at this time. The Garda Síochána is not aware of any challenges before the courts on grounds of unreliability of equipment.