Vol. 487 No. 4
53 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the consideration, if any, which has been given to protect small retail businesses from the large superstores; the measures, if any, that have been considered; the measures that could be put in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4154/98]
Under the Competition Act, 1996, the Competition authority and the director of Competition Enforcement have powers to act against alleged abuses of competition legislation. In particular, any abuse of a dominant position can be pursued by the authority and by the Director of Competition Enforcement with stringent penalties provided for in respect of proven abuse. The Director of Consumer Affairs is responsible for enforcing the Restrictive Practices (Groceries) Order, 1987 which, inter alia, protects small retail grocers in that it prohibits below cost selling and advertising in this sector.
The Competition and Mergers Review Group established by my predecessor is currently examining the Order as part of its terms of reference.
