Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Yes, mirrors. Lights on top shine on mirrors below which reflect the light back up — it is as simple as that. It has been done before. I know this technology has not reached the Minister just yet and that it is way above and beyond anything the modern experts in this area might consider, but it is simple and it does not involve rocket science. The Minister might comment on the extent to which he might seek to conserve energy in public buildings, not just in this city but throughout the country, which are currently lit up all night long — I suppose they look good that way.

I remember when all such lights had to be switched off by order.

See this speech in context