Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Under what standing order are you making that ruling, a Cheann Comhairle? This matter is strictly in order. I merely seek Government time for discussion of the details of this statutory instrument. It is a matter of considerable importance to people throughout the country. I respectfully suggest that there be some discussion on it. We cannot amend a statutory instrument. It is either passed or not. If the House decides to reject the statutory instrument a different one, with a lower levy requirement, could be made. I ask the Taoiseach to deal with this matter.

On 11 December 2009, the Committee on Petitions of the European Parliament wrote to the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transport. This followed a petition, facilitated by Mr. Jim Higgins MEP, by the parents of three young women who had lost their lives in road accidents in Ireland. The Committee on Petitions listened to the parents' arguments about the requirement for road safety standards and signage in Ireland. While the appropriate directive refers to trans-European networks, the members of the Committee on Petitions nevertheless decided to write to the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transport to ask that the parents of the three young women who lost their lives be invited to give the evidence they gave to the European Committee on Petitions to the Joint Committee on Transport. There has not been a response and I suggest that, out of public interest and because of the commitment shown by the parents of those young women in following this matter through, that the Chairman of the joint committee, Deputy Frank Fahey, invite them to attend the joint committee for a discussion on road signage, road safety and road alignment, arising from the fact that their daughters lost their lives in accidents because of incompetence by local authorities.

It would be appropriate to get away from hiding behind the fact that statements were made in the House about the lost at sea scheme. Deputy Michael Creed raised this matter on a number of occasions. Questions remain to be asked and answers can be given.

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