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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 23 Oct 2003

Vol. 573 No. 2

Written Answers. - Price Comparisons.

Liz McManus

Question:

41 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the recent survey by a Sunday newspaper that found huge disparities between the prices charged here and in the UK by supermarkets for the same goods; the steps planned to prevent exploitation of consumers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24480/03]

I am aware of press coverage suggesting that disparities of the kind referred to by the Deputy exist. Prices of goods and services are in general determined by markets and not by Government regulation. Government has an important role in helping to ensure that markets work effectively for consumers and in the interest of the economy as a whole. The main policy levers available to me in this regard are in the areas of competition policy and consumer protection. Consumers also have an important role to play as participants in the market process and it is important that we use every opportunity to get that message across.

Question No. 42 answered with Question No. 8.

Question No. 43 answered with Question No. 34.
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