The operators of Go Safe speed detection vans have used their time during speed monitoring sessions to study for diplomas and degrees.
That is according to counsel for Go Safe, Kevin Bell BL, who has told a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) hearing in Ennis that Go Safe staff are not required to look at the speed camera at all times.
He told the hearing that during a two-hour monitoring session, Go Safe employees are required to remain in the vans to maintain a chain of evidence for speeding prosecutions.
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Mr Bell said that Go Safe monitoring staff “have used monitoring sessions to learn musical instruments, study for diplomas and degrees and... more or less as they see fit”.
Go Safe is contracted by the State to deploy its vans across the road network.
At the hearing, four Go Safe employees, based out of the firm’s Portlaoise depot and represented by Siptu Workers’ Rights Advocate Andrea Cleere, alleged that Go Safe is in breach of workplace legislation concerning the taking of rest breaks.
Cavan-based Go Safe operator, Niall Walsh said he was required to monitor the speed detection camera “constantly due to changing weather conditions”.
Asked by Ms Cleere if he has the chance to take breaks, Mr Walsh said: “I would be able to but then I wouldn’t be able to monitor the equipment.”
Mr Bell said: “The entire premise of the claim that their breaks are not in compliance with statute clearly falls away because they are allowed to leave the van at their discretion.”
He also said the Labour Court had already found that a vehicle is a satisfactory location for a statutory break.
The WRC will issue its determination in the case at a future date.
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