Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I refer to taxi regulation. I am sure many colleagues, particularly those who live outside Dublin, have more occasion to use the taxi service in this city than I do. Last night Dawson Street was like a Christmas tree of taxis. In fact, some of them were bedecked with all sorts of weird lights and jingle jangles which I have never seen on an official taxi. To say the situation has gone out of control would be an understatement. There is a real issue around rogue taxi drivers. The level of kerb-crawling in this city with taxi drivers not adhering to the formal ranks is outrageous. Given the number of people who I hope and pray will come to this country for The Gathering, taxi regulation and cleaning up our act in regard to taxis is vital.

I refer to other good news today, namely, the comments of Christine Lagarde of the IMF suggesting that more time be given to countries like Ireland which are trying to tackle a very difficult economic situation and to deal with deficits. There is a growing acceptance that countries like Ireland are doing their best to tackle a very difficult situation. Another debate on the economy is due at this time and perhaps the acting Leader might suggest that.