James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I support my colleagues who raised the issue of crime, on which it is important that we have a further debate following the recent upsurge in crime figures. On local and national radio stations, it is the topic of discussion morning, noon and night. People are genuinely concerned about crime and the problem needs to be tackled once and for all. I support the Leader in this respect.

The war in Iraq is being blamed for the huge increase in the price of fuel. Since Christmas, the price of diesel oil and petrol has risen by 30%. It is important that we have a debate on this issue because it is driving inflation out of control. The Irish Road Haulage Association and many others in the haulage business are concerned about the possible consequences. As we speak, businesses are closing down. They have already had to deal with huge increases in insurance, tax and so on. It is important that we have a debate on this issue as soon as possible. People are concerned that their livelihoods could be devastated. It is not fair for us to stand idly by and let this happen.