Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I welcome Dublin's successful bid to host Euroscience Open Forum in 2012, which will provide a tremendous opportunity to showcase the progress Ireland has made in the fields of science, technology and innovation.

Notwithstanding the current international market turmoil in the financial services market, Dublin now is well established as a centre for international financial services activities, with the world's leading names established here. However, one strategic issue warrants Government support, that is, a world-class payment system that facilitates business and personal banking requirements. As Members are aware, electronic payments are the most efficient, effective and secure means of payment. I ask the Leader to outline the role that is envisaged for the Government, the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator in promoting and facilitating a highly efficient world-class payment system that will meet the rapidly changing needs. I refer in particular to communications infrastructure regarding the availability of broadband speed and so on. Perhaps the Leader will provide a briefing to Members in that regard.

I wish to raise two further issues that mainly pertain to the capital in which I reside, Dublin. First, I refer to the recent rate increase on Dublin business houses, at a time when everyone is under pressure regarding the economy, and its impact on the city. Second, will the Leader outline the schedule for the proposed metro for Dublin city as well as the impact of and support that prevails for this development?