Be Summer Ready 2022 - Minister Naughton

Speech material for Minister Naughton, Be Summer -Ready Launch, Wednesday 06th April 2022

NECC, Agriculture House, Department of Agriculture, Kildare Street @3.45pm

I am pleased to be here today at the launch of the Be Summer Ready campaign with my Ministerial colleagues Minister Coveney and Minster Butler. As we look forward to the summer months; making plans to take some time out for ourselves, or to spend it with family and friends, it is a time of excitement and anticipation. This year’s theme of ‘minding your mental health this summer’ prompts me to think of the enjoyment that can be found in exploring our country and all it has to offer.

COVID 19 has impacted on all of us and in how we live our lives for the last two years. As restrictions have been lifted and our public transport services are now operating at full capacity again, more of us are thinking of our summer travel plans and the activities we might undertake.

Before you travel you may wish to check with your travel provider. The Be Summer Ready booklet provides useful contact information in respect of the Department of Transport agencies. It is also a valuable source of information on topics including road and water safety.

We are all aware of the Ukrainian crisis and I welcome the information provided to Ukrainians on the supports and services available while they are in Ireland through gov.ie/Ukraine, which will also include a translated version of the 2022 Be Summer Ready campaign booklet and information leaflet.

As we prepare for the warmer weather ahead, it is also a timely reminder to be aware of the risks to ourselves and others that some activities may present. For peace of mind, planning for uncertainties should be part of our overall plans this summer. As reflected in the Be Summer Ready leaflet and as part of focusing on our mental health, the summer presents opportunities to try new activities which may take place outdoors as the evenings become longer.

Some of these activities may take place on our beaches and coastlines, which should be enjoyed safely. Be Summer Ready contains information regarding safety in coastal areas and mindfulness of weather conditions as we travel. Check the weather forecast before you travel and be aware of any weather warnings which may be in place. Information in respect of the weather and sea areas may be found on the Met Eireann website www.met.ie

It is important to be aware of water safety and the message from the Irish Coast Guard in regards to coastal areas and water based activities is to PAUSE;

• make a plan before you go in or near the water which should include how to raise an alarm should you be required to do so. Ensure that you let somebody know where you are going and what time to expect you back.

• Always ensure that you have a means of communication be it a VHF radio, fully charged mobile phone, flares or an electronic locator Beacon. Always wear a Lifejacket or Personal Floatation Device if engaging in any form of boat activity including kayaking and canoeing.

• Use readily available information and spend some time familiarising yourself with the prevailing conditions and be alert to tide times and weather forecasts.

• Seek help immediately if you or somebody else you observe is in difficulty.

Importantly, enjoy the summer outdoors safely and act responsibly.

If travelling by road, ensure that the vehicle is summer ready before you set out and heed the advice and tips of the Road Safety Authority, which is available on their website www.rsa.ie. A summary of their guidance is available in Be Summer Ready.

The fine weather brings more people out and about and unfortunately this increases the risk to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Drivers are asked to slow down and expect the unexpected.

All road users should be aware of the risks associated with alcohol during the summer months. Never, ever, drink and drive. If you do drink alcohol make appropriate arrangements in advance to ensure that you and your loved ones return home safely.

I am mindful of the increase in agricultural vehicles on public roads during the summer months. Farmers should look out for low bridges, overhanging trees, overhead cables and uneven road surfaces. Tractor tyres should be kept clean to avoid the transfer of mud and stones onto public roads. Drivers of cars and other road users should exercise patience if behind an agricultural vehicle.

I would draw attention to the guidance relating to motor homes or towing a caravan and the importance of ensuring they are roadworthy.

Remember that both a caravan and a trailer will affect how a car performs and how well you can control it. In particular, towing a caravan increases the amount of fuel a car uses and decreases its ability to accelerate and brake. The Road Safety Authority has produced a booklet and a series of short videos which provide useful information on towing trailers legally and safely.

In conclusion, I would like to acknowledge the continued efforts of the Road Safety Authority in providing information around using our roads safely. I would also like to thank all of our search and rescue services, including Coast Guard staff at Malin Valentia and Dublin, Coast Guard volunteers, Helicopter crews, RNLI and Community inshore rescue crews for their continued efforts in ensuring water safety.

I am sure, like me, that you are looking forward to the summer months, particularly as we come out of a difficult two years and society has opened up fully again. Whatever plans you make, please attend to your personal safety and prepare appropriately.

Thank you