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

On occasion students are very unhappy to be taken out of school but I think it is good for them. A Cheann Comhairle, they have had the opportunity of seeing a national personality and I am sure they are very happy about that. If the Ceann Comhairle wants me to stray off I can talk about Tallaght for the next 20 minutes. I am very glad that the Dáil has returned to normal business. People want us to deal with the issues that are of concern to them. During the past few days we have had major statements on crime and health issues. That is what people want us to address.

As the previous speaker said there are issues which are of concern to our communities. I take the opportunity to acknowledge the presence of the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy John McGuinness, because I have not been in the House with him since his appointment, which I warmly welcome. I think he will do a tremendous job and I hope he will not spend all his time wondering about the prospects of the Kilkenny-Carlow region. Tallaght is the third largest population centre in the country and we appreciate the attention of Ministers. I know the Minister of State was in Russia last week and did some very positive work, however, members may be surprised to learn that I am the chairman of the Ukraine parliamentary friendship group. Therefore, I take the opportunity to mention the significant market in Ukraine.

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