Dáil Éireann - Volume 226 - 01 March, 1967

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Walkinstown Cross (Dublin) Traffic Garda.

43. Mr. Clinton asked the Minister for Justice if he will make arrangements for a member of the Garda Síochána to be on duty at Walkinstown Cross, Dublin to ensure the safe passage of children going to and coming from school.

Mr. B. Lenihan: The safe passage of children crossing roads when going to and coming from schools is primarily the concern of the local authority and the question of the appointment of a school warden at Walkinstown Cross is a matter for the local authority, with whom the Garda authorities are in consultation.

The amount of vehicular traffic, [2147] which is slow moving at this point, would not justify the appointment of a Garda pointsman.

Mr. Clinton: Is the Minister aware that about 500 children have to cross this extremely dangerous crossing each day? Is he further aware that the Safety First Association have refused to allow a warden to be appointed there because they say that, with his limited training, his own life would be in danger? For that reason I am asking the Minister if, in the meantime, and until something is done to make the crossing safe, he will for the sake of the children ensure that a member of the Garda Síochána will be on duty there during the required hours?

Mr. B. Lenihan: The Commissioner of the Garda Síochána has taken this matter up with Dublin County Council and he is pressing the county council to employ a traffic warden.

Mr. Clinton: That cannot be done because they are depending on the Safety First Association and they say it is not safe for a warden because of his limited training.

Mr. B. Lenihan: On that aspect, I shall certainly look into it.