Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I would like the House to discuss, particularly taking account of the groups that will protest outside today, the appropriate fiscal response to the rise in oil prices to hauliers and drivers. While it would be superficially attractive to have the Exchequer act as a cushion, it would blunt the signals. There is evidence that the rise in oil prices is related to long-term supply difficulties in terms of the growth of economies in places such as China and India. It is important we are reminded yet again of the need to conserve energy and to use it efficiently.

In that regard, I congratulate the Minister for Transport on his decision to re-open the Cork-Midleton railway line.