asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the hazard to the general public from loose chippings on the roads when under repair by the respective local authorities; and, if so, if he will ensure that such authorities insure against accidents for the protection of the community at large.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Loose Chippings on Roads.
47.
I have already drawn this matter to the special attention of road authorities and have recommended that appropriate steps be taken to minimise possible hazards to road users.
Local authorities are empowered under existing legislation to insure against any liability that may arise in such circumstances.
Is the Minister aware that it has been held in court that in the event of an accident arising from loose chippings on the road, if the county council have posted a warning notice, they are exempt from damages being given against them? Would the Minister ensure that the county councils have specific insurance against accidents caused by loose chippings?
The local authorities are empowered to insure against any liability.
I am aware of an action taken against a local authority in a case in which a windscreen was smashed and the action was rejected by the court and the man concerned had no redress for the damage caused.
Is the Minister aware that in cases where roads are under repair, only very small warning notices are posted? In the autumn of last year, I saw cars in the south of Ireland drenched with tar. There was a small notice to say that the road was under repair but there was no warning to drivers that they were approaching a place where tar was being spread. The tar was liquid and if the engineers were cautioned of the necessity to give proper warning, it would help a lot.
I will have a look at that.