Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 May 1999

Vol. 504 No. 7

Written Answers. - Fuel Prices.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

112 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to public concerns regarding the wide variations in fuel prices charged to motorists in different parts of the country; the plans, if any, she has to prevent motorists in some areas being asked to pay more than in other areas; the complaints, if any, she has received regarding fuel pricing in the Limerick area; the investigation, if any, held into the complaints regarding fuel pricing in Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12623/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. T. Kitt)

Variations in prices are to be expected in a competitive market. Consumers can and do become aware of these variations. Where significant variations in prices occur consumer power will send a message to the market. My advice to consumers continues to be "when filling up, shop around".

I have recently received a complaint regarding the price of petrol in Limerick, to which I will be responding shortly.