Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment. I am pleased to have an opportunity to speak to the amendment because I was in the Chair during discussion of a similar Committee Stage amendment, which prevented me from contributing to the debate. The Minister of State will recall that on Second Stage he handed a Senator a list featuring the names of members of the road safety authority. When they were read out Senators paid tribute to the individuals in question and noted their suitability for the positions to which they had been appointed. The chairman, Mr. Gay Byrne, for example, was described as an inspired choice, while the list also featured a rally driver and former county manager.

Having served with councillors such as Peter Feeney, Bridie Willers, Michael Mullins, Tom McHugh and Tiernan Walsh, I oppose the decision to prevent local authority members from contributing as members of the road safety authority which is committed to improving safety on our roads. The proposal appears to follow an agenda set some time ago and which has become apparent in all legislation providing for the making of public appointments. Exceptions should be made to this policy, including with regard to appointments to the road safety authority.

During an earlier debate on school transport many Government Senators identified the quality of roads as a major factor in accidents, including the recent tragedy involving a school bus in County Meath. I mean no disrespect to Members when I state that councillors are in a particularly good position to make a contribution to road safety. Having considered the matter overnight, I ask the Minister of State to accept the amendment.