Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael)

I want to share some good news about banks, for a change. MBNA in Carrick-on-Shannon has been sold, thereby protecting the 250 jobs in the Irish side of the business. It is no accident this welcome news was released on foot of the successful visit by the Taoiseach and Ministers to New York. It is very good news for the workers concerned after a period of great uncertainty.

We must also take action on the price of diesel, petrol and home heating oil. Every time there is a price increase, the Government gets more in tax. It is time to take a look at the issue of tax on oils, particularly diesel as most transport in the country is diesel. As someone from the agriculture sector, I am aware that now that spring is here, significant amounts of diesel will be needed for farming. The higher prices are a major factor in this area and will affect and reduce progress made in farming over the past number of months.