asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that larger collection and delivery vehicles are already in use on old country road systems which are proving unable to accommodate the size or weight of modern loads; and whether he considers that this pressure will have most undesirable effects on such roads.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Country Road Systems.
7.
There are statutory limits on the weights and dimensions of vehicles which may be used on Irish roads. I am aware that heavier vehicles cause greater wear on the roads, in the long term. Responsibility for the upkeep and improvement of county roads rests with the road authorities, to whom substantial Road Fund grants are made available.
The Minister is probably aware that the county roads in Kildare are very bad in this regard and would he consider giving an increased grant to cover the circumstances outlined in this question?
That is an entirely different matter.
I find it difficult to swallow some of the Chair's rulings. Perhaps you can explain, Sir, why the matter I have raised is different from the subject matter of the question on the Order Paper.
It might be related in some way but the relationship is very far out.
Can the Minister see any connection between the two?
Absolutely none.
In that case I appreciate the need for the glasses being worn by the Minister.