Vol. 431 No. 2
88 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the concern of the general public at the cost of soft drinks sold in public houses and to the fact that publicans' charges include high profit margins; the measures, if any, that are available to him to address this matter; and if he will consider introducing such measures.
As the Deputy will be aware, centralised price control under the Prices Acts generally ceased in 1986. The emphasis of the Government is on the development of competition in every sector of enterprise and encouraging consumer awareness of prices.
I am aware that concern is expressed from time to time about the pricing of soft drinks sold by publicans. However, in the absence of official information, I am not in a position to offer meaningful comment on profit margins or prices charged. Given the wide availability of soft drinks in various outlets, I believe that there is every opportunity for concerned consumers to satisfy their requirements by vigorously exercising choice and supporting those outlets whose price fairly reflects the products and services which they provide.
I should like to point out that, pursuant to retail prices display Orders in 1976 and 1984 (S.I. 146 of 1976 and S.I. 213 of 1984), persons selling non-alcoholic beverages in licensed premises and catering establishments are required to display their retail prices in a specified manner. The Director of Consumer Affairs is charged with the enforcement of these Orders.
