John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I agree with my colleague, Senator Coghlan, in regard to the issue he raised. Will the Leader ask the Minister for Transport to confirm or deny reports in the media in recent days that the proposed fly-over at the Red Cow roundabout to facilitate the Luas has been cast by the wayside? As somebody who uses the junction – I am sure other Members use it regularly – I can confirm the chaos which occurs there daily. A filter light allowing people to cross three lanes of traffic to a Luas facility is not something to which we would look forward. Despite the money involved, the fly-over should be provided.

Last week official figures were released which showed that inflation for the month of February was 5.1%. Contrary to what certain Government spokespersons said, the figure increased on the previous month's. I urge the Leader to facilitate a debate as soon as possible to discuss the rising inflation figure. In light of the war in Iraq, the figure is likely to be under pressure again in the coming months.

I urge the Leader to request the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to come to the House to discuss crime. It is an issue which has been raised on a number of occasions in the House. In my short time here I have not seen a debate as delayed as this one, even though many Members have requested it. The Leader should allow time for a debate as soon as possible.