Seán Barrett
Question:151 Mr. Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans, if any, she has to introduce legislation to prevent the introduction of the superstore concept in this country. [8761/98]
Written Answers. - Retail Sector Developments.
I refer the Deputy to the comprehensive reply I gave to Priority Question No. 1 on 26 March 1998 on the same subject. I have no powers under any legislation under the aegis of my Department to regulate so called superstores or the type of retail outlet allowed to operate at such superstores. I am responsible for competition law and specifically for the Competition Acts, 1991 and 1996. Under the Competition Acts and through the Competition Authority, which was established to regulate competition, aggrieved persons can either take legal action themselves or make a complaint to the Director of Competition Enforcement where they feel that anti-competitive measures have been deployed against them.
I reiterate my belief that the size and location of stores and their social implications can best be dealt with in the context of the physical planning laws and I am writing to the Minister for the Environment and Local Government on this matter.