Mr. Thomas Murphy:

Regarding the motorways and minor collisions, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, which we deal with on a daily basis is responsible for the motorways. Its contractors and subcontractors provide a 24-7 service along those in regard to attending at collisions, including minor collisions. They will assist An Garda Síochána if called to the scene. Where possible they will try to clear a scene. We have co-ordinated diversion routes with TII along motorway sections where, if needs be, traffic can be diverted off. The bottom line is safety for other road users. We have a system in place along with TII contractors to slow the traffic that is coming up behind the collision. A lot of technology is used with signage. The motorway traffic control centre which was opened last year has essentially the most up-to-date equipment. It is like the Star Trek Enterprise with the technology that is being used on a 24-7 basis. We work collectively with TII staff on a daily basis. I take the point in relation to delays. They are frustrating but it is about getting people and vehicles off the road safely. Sometimes there are difficulties with cars where gearboxes are stuck. Many issues can arise with collisions as members will be aware. It is just not straightforward to remove a vehicle.

There could be fluid leakages that mean it is not safe to allow a road to open. That delays matters further again and has a knock-on effect. By and large, fender benders are cleared as quickly as possible but it is a team effort between the contractors from Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, and the Garda to move them. The bottom line is the safety of the road users, the Garda staff and TII staff.