asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the present position concerning the EEC first programme on consumer protection.
Ceisteanna——Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Consumer Protection Programme.
158.
The preliminary programme of action in the field of consumer protection and information is currently the subject of discussion at council working group level. It is expected that the programme will be finalised at a meeting tentatively arranged for November and that it will come before the council for approval before the end of the year.
Can the Minister honestly tell me and this House if anything has been done in this regard?
Is the Deputy referring to activities on the part of the EEC?
Yes.
I have indicated in my answer that it is expected that the programme will be finalised at a November meeting—this is of the officials—and that it will come before the Council of Ministers in December of this year. I think that that is evidence. If the Deputy feels that the European institutions work too slowly, then I feel the same. I know that Deputies feel that all institutions work too slowly, and I agree with them. Nonetheless there is evidence that work is proceeding, that there is a timetable and that we can expect finalisation before the end of the year.
Is it not true that other Ministers for Industry and Commerce, having similar responsibilities have taken upon themselves the responsibility to protect the consumer, which our Minister is not doing?
The Deputy is making an argument and not keeping to the question. Question No. 159.
Well, this has happened. The French, English and other Ministers have taken the responsibility upon themselves. Why will the Irish Minister not do likewise?