asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether his Department is aware of the increasing practice of supermarket stores in this country which are branches of cross-Channel companies of selling only British products even where equally good Irish products are available; and whether any steps are contemplated to ensure that the consuming public in this country are allowed the opportunity of buying Irish goods in such stores.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supermarket Sales of British Products.
44.
My information is that cross-Channel controlled supermarket stores operating in this country sell quite large quantities of Irish made goods. Indeed, I am informed that one of these stores stocks about 90 per cent Irish goods. The National Development Association are using every opportunity of reminding the buying public of the advantages of purchasing Irish quality goods. Obviously, the most effective method of promoting the sale of any particular Irish product in supermarket stores is for the Irish firm or firms concerned themselves to create a consumer demand for their products. I do not think anyone needs to be reminded of my views in this matter. I have lost no opportunity of emphasising to the public that their best interests lie in supporting Irish products or of emphasising to traders that their long-term interest likewise lies in stocking and selling Irish goods, the quality of which in general has been so clearly demonstrated by their success on export markets.