Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is welcome that the G8 summit has concluded with a strong statement on tackling tax evasion internationally and on issues of tax, trade and transparency more generally. It is particularly welcome from the perspective of the developing world to see that the eight leading developed countries have signed this declaration. It is also welcome that Ireland received strong, positive publicity, apart from the midges at Glendalough, from the visit of the Obamas. The visit of Michelle Obama and her daughters to Trinity College Dublin was an especial highlight for many of us.

I welcome national bike week and urge colleagues to get on their bikes in the fine weather and more generally. Cyclists have been getting bad press, particularly in the Dáil and recent media commentary. It is important to note that there is generally very little provision for cyclists, not just in Dublin but also on the roads nationally. There are still very low numbers cycling regularly to work and school. While numbers have increased in recent years, they are nowhere near the levels they were at in the 1980s in terms of the proportions of pupils cycling to school and third level students cycling to college. We must increase the numbers cycling as the more cyclists take to the roads, the safer they become for cyclists, pedestrians and other road users. The Dublin Cycling Campaign and others have done great work. We have seen great improvements in cycling infrastructure in Dublin with the introduction of the Dublin bike scheme and the development of the Grand Canal cycle path. There are still many cycle paths and routes which are very inadequate, including nearby at St. Stephen's Green, where cyclists must face into oncoming motor traffic. We need a more joined-up approach to cycling. I, therefore, ask the Leader for a debate on ways to increase the use of bicycles. Perhaps the debate might take place when we come back in September.

I ask for a debate on legislation to tackle the issue of forced marriages in the light of the judgment yesterday in the High Court in which Mr. Justice McMenamin commented on an application in respect of a child in care. He said there was a potential need for specific legislation to deal with the dreadful human rights abuse and abuse of children represented by forced marriage. It has been a huge issue in Britain and elsewhere. Legislation has been introduced in other jurisdictions and, if it is a problem here, we should follow suit to ensure no girl is forced into marriage against her will.