asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism if, in view of the findings of the Parker Report into the effect of supermarkets on independent grocers, he intends to introduce legislation to limit the development of supermarket outlets.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Development of Supermarkets.
8.
Proposals have been made to me for action in relation to the development of supermarket outlets and these are being considered in conjunction with the report by the Restrictive Practices Commission of their inquiry into the retail sale of grocery goods below cost.
In the case of multinationals have specific measures been applied as in France, West Germany, Holland and Belgium? Such measures worked in those countries. Is the Minister aware of such measures? Does he propose to take similar action here to ensure the survival of thousands of jobs here in the small grocery trade?
The Government are worried about the survival of all jobs. It is reasonable to wait until the report is published before commenting on it.
Representations were made to the Department in the past two years while this buck passing between the Minister's Department and the Department of the Environment was taking place and I should like to know what the Minister has done to ensure the retention of such jobs in this business. While all this is taking place jobs are being lost.
The Deputy is aware that we must await the publication of the report before commenting on its contents.
A good day is coming when all those reports come to hand.
I have been told that replies to all my questions today await the result of an investigation.
I am not responsible for the answers.
I agree, because the Chair would not act in that fashion.
When does the Minister expect action to be taken on the results of the report?
The report will be published in the new year, comments will be made on it then and action taken, if necessary.
Does the Minister feel that action will be necessary?
I have given the Deputy sufficient latitude, and I am passing to the next question.
The Minister has not replied to my last question.
I cannot help that. I do not have anything to do with the answers given to questions.
Does the Minister think action will be necessary?
We will see what the report states.
As of now the Minister does not think so? A Happy Christmas to the Minister is all I can say.