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

I have some sympathy in that regard while at the same time having other experiences in my area. That is why I am prepared to fight all the time for the further provision of decent public transport in all areas. Certainly, that is true of the greater Dublin region, and I have already talked about the Luas and the difference it has made to many communities, not alone on my side of the city but right throughout Dublin.

I have always tried to use public transport, where possible. People need to be able to trust public transport and to know that when they go for a night out and have a few drinks, it is a safe means of transport on which to return home. I hope the provisions of this Bill will continue to get that message through right across communities.

The Leas-Cheann Comhairle has been very patient with me, but I just want to stray for a second to put on record my strong support for an organisation in Tallaght, the Dublin Bus Community Forum, of which I am a member. It comprises a partnership between Dublin Bus management and unions, the community, public representatives and the Garda. We have had a number of challenges in recent times as regards anti-social behaviour which threatened the bus service. That puts people who want to go home after a few pints, having watched a match, in danger. Wherever they go, whether it is Molloys, the Penny Black, Aherne's or any of the other pubs - I shall probably get into trouble for mentioning only a few, but I had better mention the Cuckoo's Nest-----

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