Vol. 518 No. 5
34 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when she expects to receive the report of the independent group to investigate alleged anti-competitive practice in the beef industry and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11956/00]
The Government decided on 19 January last to establish an independent group to examine allegations of anti-competitive practices in the beef industry and the alleged failure of consumer prices to reflect reductions in producer prices.
The Independent Group is composed of Mr. Kevin Bonner, Chairman, Professor Seamus Sheehy of UCD, and Mr. Colm McCarthy, economist.
The terms of reference of the group are to examine allegations of anti-competitive practice in the beef industry; to establish why there is such a large differential between the producer price and the prevailing consumer price; and, to make any appropriate recommendations in the matter.
I expect the group to report to me by 28 April 2000.
