Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I would not disagree with the assertion that we must consider every method, no matter how new, to improve the quality of surfaces, signage and markings on our roads. That is unquestioned. Many accidents occur on what would be termed regional roads and non-national roads, which are the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. However, testing continues all the time and all the authorities have in recent years examined surfaces and new materials to ensure the standards of road safety can be increased. When we have finished upgrading the road network throughout the country, not just the major inter-urban routes but all the connecting major roads, I have no doubt the situation will improve dramatically. We must remove bad roads with bad bends, which are used by powerful cars being driven too fast, some by drivers who have taken drink or drugs.

It is a process. We are doing anything we can. We have improved the situation but we need to do more. However, we need the understanding and assistance of the public in terms of individual responsibility to have a big win on this.

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