Lowry seeks special road funding for Council to address rain damage
Roads across the midlands have been ravaged by the heavy rainfall
Tipperary TD Michael Lowry has called for additional funding for the local authority to repair roads.
"Poor road conditions can result in accidents, particularly at night. The recent incessant rain has caused serious damage to many roads across the country. Unlit roads in rural locations are particularly hazardous. Regional roads have also been ravaged by persistent heavy rainfall", Deputy KLowry told the Dáil.
"Tipperary County Council is in urgent need of additional Government funding to address road repairs.
"In many cases the work they have already carried out has been eroded by the unrelenting rain, leaving treacherous conditions for unsuspecting motorists. With funding depleted their hands are tied and this must be rectified" Deputy Michael Lowry told the Dail during Statements on Road Safety on Wednesday.
"Accident blackspots have been identified across Tipperary and the country. A special fund should be made available to Local Authorities to carry out works to make these blackspots safe. This would require a managed, coordinated programme of funded works.
"Ireland’s record for road fatalities was in dismal contrast to other EU countries in 2023. While most countries reduced their number of road deaths, ours increased by 19%.
"Sixteen people lost their lives on roads in Tipperary last year. This figure was more than double the number that died on the county’s roads the previous year, making Tipperary the county with the highest number of road fatalities in 2023.
"Nationally, fatalities occurred across all categories of road users including drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, pedal cyclists and pedestrians.
"Sadly, this year is already revealing grim statistics with a high proportion of fatalities in the under 30 age group.
"Fingers point immediately at the Gardai. In times of grief, it is human nature to target someone. Gardai responded last week by revealing plans to place every Garda on duty on at least 30 minutes of roads policing activity on every shift.
"Their decision to do so is welcome, but it can only address one aspect of the problem. Gardai cannot be everywhere all the time.
"Ongoing and hard-hitting education and awareness of the dangers of driving while under the influence of any mind-altering substance must be a major focus. Campaigns on drink and drug driving may not be pleasant, but if they create awareness and save lives, it makes them invaluable."