Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

We have set out the Order of Business for the day. It was insisted on yesterday that we proceed with the proposals that are before us. If it is possible for the Whips to provide for half an hour within that timeframe, without changing it, I am sure that can be looked at in an effort to be helpful.

The interagency co-ordination group has been meeting since this spell of bad weather began. The Ministers for Transport, Defence and the Environment, Heritage and Local Government attended this morning's meeting. An emergency co-ordination mechanism is in place to deal with these sorts of situations. It has been up and running.

The Deputy sought clarification and advice with regard to liability for members of the public when clearing snow from outside residential and business premises. There is clear advice from the Attorney General. The issue of liability does not arise for snow that is cleared in a safe manner. If a pavement is cleared in a manner that disposes of snow so as not to create any obstacle or hazard, there is no issue of liability. I think common sense prevails.

We have sufficient reserves of salt. This issue arose last year when we had a very bad spell. We have over 80,000 tonnes in reserve. I think another 50,000 tonnes have been obtained by the NRA. The amount that is usually used in a typical winter period, from November to March, is 60,000 tonnes. There are stocks in place. Indeed, the main roads which take 60% of total traffic and 80% of commercial traffic are being salted on an ongoing basis. It is a priority issue. Other roads are also being dealt with as a priority issue by local authorities. Of course we would advise people to take public transport where possible. It is important that we look out for our neighbours, particularly the elderly, and make sure they are looked after.

See this speech in context