David Norris (Independent)

I am precisely seeking a debate. I have the greatest of respect for the Garda, members of whom were at our demonstration and were as helpful, courteous and polite as they usually are. However, it is not appropriate they should be used in the west as the shock troops of a discredited multinational combine and it is not fair on them because it places them in an invidious position.

I hope I am not being parochial when I call for a debate on the transport system and, in particular, a small but important element of it. Dublin City Council has apparently decided to turn Mountjoy Square, one of our finest 18th century squares, into a car park for private commercial bus companies. Irrespective of the fact that a nursery school and a playground are located there and even leaving aside the architectural significance of the place, it is a danger to children. We ought, as responsible representatives, to investigate the matter.