Seamus Kirk
Question:112 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the present position regarding price control of grocery products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1408/95]
Written Answers. - Price Controls.
Price control generally was abolished in 1986 with the disbanding of the National Prices Commission. Currently there are no statutory price controls in operation. The emphasis of successive Governments since 1986 has been to promote competition and encourage greater consumer awareness of prices. In this regard the Competition Act, 1991 sets down the legal framework necessary to protect the market and to promote the principles of free and fair competition. Consumers have an important role to play and should be sensitive to the range of prices on offer and make their purchases accordingly. This applies not only in the grocery sector but throughout the economy generally.
The Restrictive Practices (Groceries) Order, 1987 includes provisions which prohibit below cost selling of many grocery products. The Order is enforced by the Director of Consumer Affairs. I am reviewing the operation of the Order at present and I expect to be in a position to give my view on the future of the Order at an early date.