As a fifth generation Dubliner, I have seen the changes which have taken place in the city, most of which are welcome. However, the city has grown and spread at an enormous rate. This has had a number of effects, perhaps the most visible and tangible of which is the congestion regularly experienced on the roads. Another is the cost of living accommodation within the city. Both are as a direct consequence of economic development. I have heard it said numerous times that it is a sign of the times – some houses have two cars while others have more. The property market has boomed due to competition and prices have spiralled upwards.