Problems with Go Safe camera convictions concerning – Dooley

Published on: 24 March 2014


Fianna Fáil’s Transport spokesperson Timmy Dooley is calling for more stringent regulation of the Go-Safe camera system.

His comments come after a Clare District Court Judge described the system as “a complete waste of public money”.  Judge Patrick Durcan was forced to dismiss four cases last week because of problems with the system.

Go Safe was awarded the €80 million contract to operate a network of speed cameras across the country back in 2009.  In 2012, the company which runs the system recorded operating profits of €50,000 per week.

“It’s important that road safety remains a priority in this country.  Last year was one of the worst on our roads for fatalities in recent years, with 190 people killed.  It was the first year since 2005 that road deaths increased.  Go Safe cameras were introduced as part of a range of measures aimed at reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured.  However, I’m concerned at the problems which now seem to be emerging.  The cameras are intended to act as a deterrent to speeding drivers, but if there are problems with Judges being able to secure convictions, it defeats the purpose”, said Deputy Dooley.

“Go Safe cameras are set up on sections of road where speed was a factor in previous collisions and they play an integral part in trying to improve driver behaviour and safety.  However, the comments from Judge Patrick Durcan are worrying.  We must look at what needs to be done to tighten up the operation of the scheme and eliminate the issues that have arisen.

“It is imperative that the progress we made on reducing road deaths over the last decade is built upon by this Government.  They must work to ensure that all initiatives designed to improve road safety are working effectively.  I would urge the Justice Minister to carry out an urgent review of the system to see where improvements can be made.”

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