Vol. 514 No. 1
76 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the terms of reference of the independent group to investigate alleged anti-competitive practice in the beef industry; when the group will report; the status of the investigation which the Competition Authority had been asked to carry out by the previous Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3493/00]
The terms of reference of the independent group to examine allegations of anti-competitive practices in the beef industry are: to examine allegations of anti-competitive practice in the beef industry; to establish why there is such a large differential between the producer and the prevailing consumer price, and, to make any appropriate recommendations in the matter.
This group was set up by the Government following its its meeting on 19 January and has already begun its work. It is chaired by Mr. Kevin Bonner, former Secretary General of my Department and also comprises of Professor Seamus Sheehy and Mr. Colm McCarthy. I have asked the group to report to me by 28 April 2000.
I understand that, in 1997, prior to this Government taking office, the Department of Agriculture and Food requested the Director of Competition Enforcement to conduct an investigation into alleged anti-competitive practices in the beef processing industry. I understand that this was one of a number of complaints relating to the meat plants received by the director which are currently under investigation by him. The director and the competition authority, of which he is a member are independent in the exercise of their statutory functions.
