Dáil Éireann - Volume 521 - 13 June, 2000

Written Answers. - Grocery Industry.

Mr. Wall Mr. Wall

40. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the report of the Competition Authority on the Groceries Order; when she proposes to make a decision on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16509/00]

Ms Harney Ms Harney

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney): I published the report of the Competition and Mergers Review Group on 4 May 2000. The group, which was chaired by Mr. Michael Collins, SC, has made some 40 recommendations on a variety of aspects of competition and mergers legislation, the enforcement of competition law, including the groceries order, and the administration of mergers law.

A majority of the review group recommended that the groceries order be repealed.

I am aware of the strong views held by various groups, commercial and other on this matter. I intend to consult all interested parties and when I have heard their views I will make my decision.

In the interim, the order remains in force.

Dáil Éireann 521 Written Answers. Grocery Industry.

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