Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On the situation that has arisen as a result of the recent very severe weather, I first want to thank and congratulate everyone who has been involved at local authority level and in the provision of local services on their efforts throughout that difficult period in keeping our road network going and helping communities at risk or vulnerable people who had to be looked after.

Obviously, there is an assessment taking place of the damage done to, as all of us will be aware, the national and regional roads. It would be important that local authorities would give priority to the surface dressing of the parts of the roads affected. Not all roads were affected, but this situation must take priority in the context of their existing allocations rather than looking to restoration or new road developments. Looking to this as a priority is something that local authorities will now need to consider.

The wildlife (amendment) Bill is due this session. I will ask the Chief Whip about any debate that could be arranged based on the Limerick situation.

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