Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I know it is difficult at this time to concentrate on any issue other than the economy. I agree with many of the points raised by colleagues. I compliment the Leader and the Minister for Finance, Deputy Brian Lenihan, on making a decision so quickly to protect the banking system and the taxpayer. This is a very serious time for discussion by all of us and we must think seriously about the situation. I welcome any debate that takes place so that we can all make our contributions.

There is another issue, however, about which I have been approached by many young women in Dublin in recent days. It concerns the city area in particular. The taxi drivers' union representative has spoken on the matter and highlighted the fact that there are drivers of cars with bogus taxi signs. Young women flag these down, thinking they are getting into a proper taxi and then find that it is not such. This is a very serious issue. It appears there may be a loophole in the legal situation. I ask the Leader to find time to put this matter on the agenda in the future when we have more time and less serious measures to consider. It deserves thorough discussion. Women are frightened and when flagging down taxis wonder whether it is a real taxi or a driver with a bogus taxi sign. This is a highly serious issue and I have been obliged to highlight it today because it has been drawn to my attention in recent days. I acknowledge that Members must deal with other important issues at present and welcome a debate on the economy and the current global position. However, the Leader should allocate time to discuss this issue, which should be examined by the Minister before providing Members with an update on it.