asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the large number of vehicles parked in the Phoenix Park, Dublin on the occasion of open air auctions in the racecourse precincts; and the steps he proposes to take to alleviate this hazard to the public.

I am aware of the car parking problem which has arisen recently in the Phoenix Park as a result of the racecourse markets. While I do not consider it a hazard to the public I am concerned about the interference with the enjoyment by the public of the amenities of the Park and about the potential danger to the grasslands. I am at present considering what steps should be taken to deal with this problem.

Can the Parliamentary Secretary explain why parking is allowed on those occasions while ordinary people who frequent the park for pleasure have had notices affixed to their cars because they were slightly over the grass margin?

I am discussing this matter with the Garda and the authorities concerned.

34.