Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

The Deputy is absolutely correct in drawing attention to the importance of the haulage industry. Even for parts of Ireland with a rail service, 95% of all freight is transported by road. This will always be the case in a country of this size and with such dispersed settlement patterns. Haulage is absolutely essential as the country would not function without such a service. We all remember during the heavy snow two years ago how shops were literally on the verge of running out of food because the haulage industry could not function in the bad weather. I have seen the report but have not yet had an opportunity to discuss it with the Minister for Finance. I will certainly do so in advance of the budget.

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