Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Chair for giving me the opportunity to speak on the motion which I strongly support because it is important and relevant to the crisis in regard to traffic management and the inadequacy of the public transport system. Before I go into detail, I wish to state that it is amazing and a bit rich for Members — they have brass necks — to come into the House and say we must do this or that we must do that; they are speaking as if they have not been in power for the past nine or ten years. The Government has had nine years to address this problem but nothing has been done. I particularly challenge those backbenchers who spoke about transport policy as if they had just arrived on the planet. The reality is that we need a plan and a vision.

I strongly support what my colleague, Deputy Gregory, said about the need to expand the Dublin Bus fleet by 50%. The No. 123 bus which serves the Marino area fills to capacity very quickly. We need a proper bus service with an adequate number of buses.

I also support the introduction of a flat fare of €1 for adults and 50 cent for children. This is a creative proposal and a sensible idea and its introduction would encourage people to use public transport.

I also challenge the people concerned regarding the spending of public moneys. The Dublin Port tunnel project is €250 million over budget. Some 30 road projects, estimated to cost €932 million, will set everybody back by approximately €2,970 million. Many road projects were 86% over budget. It is important to point out that this represents a waste of taxpayer's money.

With regard to big projects, I am mindful of the concerns expressed by local residents, particularly in Marino, Fairview and Santry. Some 273 homes have been damaged. Cracks are appearing in walls, including kitchen walls, and nobody is saying anything about it. I strongly support the local residents concerned.

See this speech in context