Ross urges us to be winter ready

THE Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross, has announced that he 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.

“In particular, I 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. Give them the respect – and the space – that they deserve.

“As we are coming into the season of good cheer and celebrations, I would ask you all not to drink and drive. As you know, the new drink driving regulations commenced last month and now anyone caught drink or drug driving will receive an automatic disqualification. If you’re off out for a well-deserved festive evening, please take public transport or nominate a designated driver.

“Similarly, speeding, particularly in wintry conditions, can be treacherous. My Department is currently developing proposals for graduated penalties for speeding offences, and I would ask you all to take great care to stay within the designated limit.

“Currently road fatalities – though still far too high – are the lowest on record. Let’s keep it that way this winter.”

As part of Winter Ready Minister Ross visited Stepaside Educate Together School to talk to the kids about road safety during the winter months and to give them all hi vis jackets.

Minister Ross said: “I was delighted to be able to visit Stepaside Educate Together School and chat to all the students there about road safety.

“It’s so important that they wear their hi vis vests coming and going from school in the dark winter days, whether they cycle or walk.

I would urge all schools to get their free jackets and bag covers from the RSA and stay safe.”