Since I established the consumer strategy group last March, the group has been provided with a secretariat by Forfás. The group has met on two occasions. To date, it has consulted with a number of interested parties including the Director of Consumer Affairs. It would not be appropriate at this stage to detail the matters it has discussed which are the subject of the deliberative processes of the group.
The group is due to produce a final report by the end of 2004 and it may also produce such interim reports to me as it considers appropriate. I see the establishment of this group as a significant initiative designed to improve and promote consumer rights in Ireland. I want to encourage and see develop in Ireland a culture where consumers are confident and insistent in demanding value and quality at all times.