Ray Butler (Meath West, Fine Gael)

Much of the issue pertained to insurance. One local authority gave people permission to grit roads whereas another local authority stated people would not be covered. Many local authorities do not have sufficient manpower or machinery, given the cutbacks. My proposal represents a simple way forward. If many people in rural areas knew there were grit and gravel banks available to them, they would make use of them. Many farmers would use their machinery free of charge. Will the Minister consult the local authorities or the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan? It is an achievable way forward.

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