Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

Let me make my contribution. Some years ago a secretary told me not to panic because another crisis would be along in ten minutes. It has been that sort of day for those of us who represent Tallaght. However, this is an important issue and I appreciate the many e-mails and calls I received from all over the country. I thought I was not known outside of where I live, but I have received e-mails from the Dublin region. I am a proud Dubliner. I have also received e-mails from all over the country and my constituency. This is an issue. Private Members' business is good because those on the Opposition benches can raise issues of concern, some of which are serious, help the debate and provide an opportunity for Government Deputies to make a contribution on the various matters.

Deputy Varadkar referred to the Square. It opened in October 1990 and has been a great place for Tallaght. When it opened, we said Tallaght had the population of a city and the status of a village. Thank God the situation has improved significantly. Tallaght was always a great place but it is now even better and has the kind of facilities one would expect in a major population centre. It is the third largest population centre in the country. I admit when I get off the Luas and go into the Square that I see the challenges faced by small, medium and large businesses. For example, in the past number of days, the 12-screen UCI cinema in the Square closed, a decision which astounded me and resulted in 50 more jobs being lost.

Shops are closing in the Square, something which is happening in other shopping centres and the streets of Dublin. I do not know if all of these issues are about rents and the inflexibility of landlords. It is a good debate and we should tackle this issue. When I had the opportunity to discuss jobs at a meeting yesterday with First Step, I found the days of Japanese and Americans coming in with thousands of jobs are gone. We must find ways to help small businesses in whatever way we can. The Government spoke about the legal status of the Bill. The principle of tackling this problem and helping people to create jobs and survive and prosper is good. I am sure the Minister of State, Deputy John Moloney, will take careful note of what all Government speakers said during the debate and pass it on to the Minister, whom I expect to take account of these matters.

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