Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A two-year pilot programme where one is not going out there and tearing down the hedges by flailing them, but is only taking a trim, is an appropriate step to give the agricultural community a chance to prove what they are saying regarding the month of August and farming practices in respect of winter grain and reseeding. It is a very logical argument and I take it on board.

I turn to safety issues. I spent 13 years as a proud member of Cork County Council and this was one of the key issues that came up in every election. The Cathaoirleach is from the same part of Ireland as I am. I note the number of phone calls one gets in rural Ireland from people regarding safety on minor roads. It is a huge issue.