Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. It is welcome that a working group has been established, but I understand from the reply that it comprises officials from the Minister's Department. Is that correct? Balance is needed from a working group.

When one considers Northern Ireland, it seems as though we live in two Ireland's. Verge and hedge trimming is done in the North throughout the year. It seems that it is in a different EU to the one we are in. There have been €5 million in insurance claims for car transporters around the country because the windscreens of cars being transported have broken. Everyone believes in making sure the nesting season is looked after, but there are health and safety issues. We cannot have grass growing on the sides of the road, which puts people's lives at risk. It is like many things in this country; we have to use a bit of common sense and cop-on.

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