Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2005
263 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the monthly movements in the price of unleaded petrol and motor diesel here during the past 12 months; and the movements in the spot prices over the same period and in movements of the average European price of these fuels at the petrol pumps. [13941/05]
View answer264 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has been tracking the movement of fuel prices at the pumps; if he has satisfied himself that the movement in prices at the pump are justified by the movement in the spot price, taking account of reserves and other factors that might mitigate its impact; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13937/05]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 263 and 264 together.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment does not track the movement of fuel prices at the pumps. The policy of the Government in respect of oil products generally is to promote competition and consumer choice. There is no price control on these products and in common with most other goods and services, price differences are an ongoing feature of the market economy. It is a matter for retailers to explain price differences where they occur and my Department encourages consumers to raise price concerns directly with retailers.
While fuel may not be subject to price control, the Retail Price (Diesel and Petrol) Display Order 1997, which is enforced by the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs, requires persons selling diesel and petrol products to specify the price per litre being charged and to display their prices in a clear and prominent manner. The order enables consumers to readily compare prices and purchase their fuel on the basis of an informed choice. If it is the case that prices for petrol are affected by agreements between petrol companies or retailers or by an abuse of a dominant position, the Competition Authority is there to enforce competition law. Any suspected infringements of competition law should be brought to the attention of the Competition Authority.
