Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will reflect on the feedback the Senator has given and the strong representations he has made. He has also been clear about his concerns relating to the high collision rate on the road. The high collision rate will not improve with increases in the population and the increased use of the road. It has an important North-South dimension.

Engineering and infrastructure are of paramount importance in improving our road safety. That is why particularly in the midlands, the west and the north of the country there are a number of strategic projects which, if constructed, will improve road safety for many people who use those roads every day. The Senator has referenced the shocking loss of life over the last number of years in Monaghan and the wider region, which is of serious concern to me. That is why a wider discussion is ongoing within the Government about investment into roads.

During our ministerial road safety committee meeting last week, there was a discussion of the importance of engineering as a facet of improving road safety. That cannot be ignored. There are other areas that will have to be further progressed. This was a difficult year on the roads. I refer to enforcement and education as well, but engineering is a core component. If ongoing progress is not in place where there are high collision rates and poor road safety records, that will have to be of consideration when decisions are made. I will reflect on the feedback the Senator has given, and his concerns with regard to road safety.