East Derry SDLP MLA John Dallat has called on the Roads Minister Danny Kennedy to address the issue of oil spillages on roads before the problem gets out of control and to ensure that sufficient deterrents are put in place to reduce the incidence of this occurring.

Mr Dallat said: "The volume of oil carried on our roads has increased significantly and is leading to accidents. Angry motorists have been refused compensation for damage to their vehicles by Roads Service who will not accept responsibility for this hazard, which is occurring ever more frequently.

-- Advertisement --

"Minister Danny Kennedy appears to have no appetite for introducing new legislation which I believe is necessary to deal with this reoccurring and serious offence. Apart from the cost of clean ups and the damage to vehicles caused by skidding, there is every likelihood that people will lose their lives if those causing the pollution are not made accountable for the mess and the expense of the clean-up.

"While most oil distributors are highly responsible in how they transport their oil products, there are far too many 'cowboys' who are a menace on the roads, totally ignoring health and safety, and these will only be stopped when substantial penalties are imposed."

(CD/GK)