I compliment the Minister of State, Deputy Jacob, on the efficient manner in which he has brought the Bill before the House and steered it though Second and Committee Stages. It is important legislation which should have been introduced a number of years ago because it has direct and crucial relevance to the lives of citizens. I represent an area not far from Dublin Airport and Dublin Port, where there is massive movement of heavy goods vehicles, often with dangerous cargoes, through housing estates.
The legislation will now be implemented by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. A large part of her remit will consist of ensuring it is carried through. However, it is important, especially in the area of health and safety and because of ongoing serious complaints about lack of resources, that the Minister of State, Deputy Jacob, makes it his business, with the Minister, Deputy Harney, to ensure in forthcoming final discussions on the budget that sufficient resources are put in place to implement the praiseworthy ideas in the legislation. It is crucial that there be sufficient personnel in the areas of inspection and health and safety to ensure the safety of workers in heavy transport and of the population through whose areas heavy goods vehicles move. I compliment the Minister, Deputy Jacob, on a job well done.