MINISTER for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross has secured additional funding for salt stocks as part of his Department’s preparation for the winter.
At the launch of the Government’s ‘Winter Ready’ campaign at the National Emergency Coordination Centre in Dublin, Minister Ross said the move was all about keeping safe during difficult weather changes.
“As Minister for Transport I am very concerned about safety on our roads, especially in hazardous conditions,” he said.
“Studies show that the use of road salt reduces collisions by up to 85 per cent during a winter event. Last year’s salt reserves were seriously depleted by Storm Emma. Therefore, this year I have secured an additional €700,000 in funding for salt supplies in preparation for severe weather events.
“As our ‘Winter Ready’ focus this year is on communities, I would like to ask people to work together to get through this winter season safely; look out for each other and remember those elderly or isolated people who may need checking in on.
“Please heed messages from the Road Safety Authority on how to keep safe on our roads, whether you’re driving, walking or cycling. In these days of little light, it’s so important to be seen at all times.”
Minister Ross said that in particular, he would ask motorists to watch out for cyclists.
“Those hardy citizens who abandon vehicles for bicycles do us all a great service by greatly reducing traffic congestion and lowering emissions,” he added.
“Give them the respect – and the space – that they deserve.”
Meanwhile, Fingal County Council showcased some of the many new additions to its vehicle and equipment fleet in advance of the 2018/2019 Winter Season in St Catherine’s Park in west Fingal.
The timing of the event coincided with the Government’s launch of the ‘Be Winter Ready’ Information Campaign 2018-2019.
The vehicles on show included a DAF Econ Unibody gritting truck with salt spinner and snow plough, two JCB 3CX Backhoe Excavators and two TD105 New Holland Tractors, one with a hydraulically controlled snowplough.
The vehicles will be deployed for use in the Operations Department in areas dealing with salting roads, snow clearance and parks as required during the winter season.
David Storey, Director of Operations at Fingal County Council, said: “We are delighted to unveil the new additions to the fleet at the wonderful St Catherine’s Park amenity.
“Each year Fingal County Council builds on our knowledge from previous years and the previous winter season has been no exception.
“Fingal staff have carried out Trojan work dealing with storms over the past 12 months such as Emma, Ophelia, Ali and more recently Storm Callum. Here is a selection of some of our new purchases which will be deployed during the coming winter season.”
Mr Storey added: “New snow ploughs which can be attached to these large tractors provide the necessary equipment for us to deal with winter season eventualities including heavy snow falls.”
• For more information visit www.winterready.ie