Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader arrange for the Minister for Transport, Deputy Noel Dempsey, to come before the House to discuss the taxi regulator? The number of taxis in Dublin is 26,843 and the number of taxis has increased in smaller towns throughout the country. It is quite clear that a cap on the numbers is required because it will not be viable for those self-employed individuals who have taxi plates and who find it very difficult to survive.

I cannot understand why the regulator introduced an 8% increase in fares last November despite the objections of taxi drivers themselves. Oil and diesel have decreased in price since then. The regulator should reverse the increase. Taxi drivers do not want it. This morning as I passed Heuston Station 68 taxis were queuing to meet the 12.15 p.m. train. That is soul-destroying for those people trying to make a living in this difficult time. We can do something very positive and the Minister can intervene. We have too many regulators who do not really regulate the business. They are not doing a great job in the circumstances.

With regard to bank regulation, the legislation we passed would allow Members of the Oireachtas to serve on the boards of banks. Having listened to the views expressed this morning, I believe there are many Members of this House who would be delighted to serve pro bono on the boards of the banks.