Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 6 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 3

Written Answers. - Retail Multiple Sector.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

125 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if his attention has been drawn to reports of possible further concentration of control within the retail multiple sector; the views, if any, he has on further concentration in this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. Quinn)

I take it that the Deputy is referring to speculative newspaper reports that one of the major multiples might be purchased by interests in another major multiple. I would not be favourably disposed to undue concentration in the sector which could arise in such a case.

Such a case would be notifiable under the Mergers, Take-overs and Monopolies (Control) Act, 1978, as amended, and would be subject to approval by me. At this point I have no such notification. If one arises it will be dealt with thoroughly.