Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 6 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 5

Written Answers - Product Sourcing.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

81 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether Irish suppliers are continuing to supply companies which have been considered under mergers or monopolies legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18254/97]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

92 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether she has satisfied herself at the degree to which overseas-based chain stores source their products in this country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18445/97]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

93 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether Irish suppliers are given an opportunity to supply all overseas-based chain stores; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18446/97]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Miss Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 81, 92 and 93 together.

The sourcing of products and services by both Irish and foreign-controlled chain stores takes place in a competitive and commercial context where sourcing and supply patterns, and changes in them, are not centrally monitored. As a consequence, the information sought by the Deputy is not available in any definitive sense. I am satisfied, however, that Irish suppliers are continuing to supply the stores involved in the recent major acquisition by a UK chain.

I also assure the Deputy that where concerns of Irish suppliers and distributors have been brought to my attention I have taken them up with the relevant interests. I have impressed on them the importance of allowing Irish suppliers every opportunity to continue and enhance business opportunities with such multiples in the future so as to protect and promote employment here.

In addition, Forbairt and An Bord Tráchtála, development agencies directly under the aegis of my Department, and An Bord Bia, are in regular contact with major retailers about their purchasing requirements with a view to identifying opportunities for Irish suppliers.

These agencies are working closely together to assist Irish suppliers develop their competitive capability and to ensure that where possible they help Irish companies supply not only Irish stores, but also help companies develop sales in overseas markets. An Bord Tráchtála, for example, each year match on average 25 buyers from different UK multiples with Irish suppliers in the clothing, giftware, furniture and non-food sectors.

Forbairt, for its part, is actively involved with both suppliers and buyers to maximise the opportunities for sales and employment growth in Irish companies.