Seanad Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Feb 1985

Vol. 107 No. 2

Business of Seanad.

An Cathaoirleach

I have notice from Senators Pat Magner and Brendan Howlin that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, they propose to raise the following matter:

The terms and conditions and other arrangements concerning the payment of pensions or other payments to retired employees of Irish Shipping Ltd. approved of by the Minister for Communications.

I regard the matter as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment and it will be taken from 8 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., or earlier if the business ordered is concluded.

I also have notice from Senator Loughrey that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:

The serious condition of roads in County Donegal as a result of over 40 days of frost.

I regret that I have to rule this matter is not suitable for discussion on the Adjournment on the grounds of lack of ministerial responsibility as the maintenance of public roads in a county is a matter for the local authority concerned.

Mr. Loughrey

I accept that the network is the responsibility of the local authority. However, in regard to national primary and secondary roads funds for those must be provided by the Department of the Environment and prior approval must be sought and granted before work can be carried out.

An Cathaoirleach

The funds come from the Department but the expenditure is controlled by the local authority and the staff of the local authority.

Mr. Loughrey

I do not wish to disagree with you. I have been in touch with the Department and the county engineer for Donegal. I am advised that prior approval for improvement works must be sought from and granted by the Department of the Environment. As a result of frost in Donegal improvement works will have to be carried out. I ask you, with respect, to re-examine that on those grounds.