I move: "That the Bill do now pass".
Restrictive Practices (Confirmation of Order) Bill, 1987: Fifth Stage.
I must say I remain unhappy about the fact that the Bill, whatever its good intentions, will lead to more imported goods on our shelves because of the difficulties of enforcing it in regard to imported goods. Those difficulties do not apply in regard to domestically produced goods. I fear that the ultimate result of legislation promoted by everybody, including the Minister, with a good intention of assisting Irish manufacturers will be to the detriment of Irish manufacturers in practice. I accept fully that the Minister has no intention of that kind, nor has anybody involved in promoting the legislation, but I fear that in practice it may prove to be the result.
I reject the Deputy's assertion. The Deputy is entitled to his view and his assessment but the people concerned with Irish industry are those who have been most vocal in trying to have this order introduced. They are entitled to their view. I brought forward this order in the best interests of Irish suppliers and businesses. I want to give independent retailers a chance and if the order does not work out that way I will be the first to admit it.
Question put and declared carried.