Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 25 Feb 1999

Vol. 501 No. 2

Written Answers. - Groceries Order, 1987.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

142 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps, if any, she is taking to ban the practices of hello money and forced supplies discounts; and if a file will be sent to the DPP regarding recent alleged breaches by Irish multiples of the Groceries Order, 1987 [5666/99]

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

I am deeply concerned that there is any suggestion of a breach of the Restrictive Practise (Groceries Order) 1987. This would be a most serious development that would fundamentally be anti-consumer. it is essential that fair and equitable business practices operate in all sectors. This is all the more important in a sector, such as the supermarket sector, on which so many ordinary consumers depend for basic grocery products.

The Groceries Order is enforced by the Director of Consumer Affairs and I am delighted that she has launched such a speedy investigation into the allegations levelled. I hope that her inquiry can be completed speedily and that all parties give the fullest co-operation to the director.

It is up to the director to initiate proceedings in the District Court for alleged breaches of the order. On summary conviction in that court, the maximum fine is £500 and/or a term of imprisonment not exceeding six months. There is also provision for a fine of up to £50 per day in respect of a continuing offence. On conviction on indict ment the penalties are up to £10,000 and/or a term of imprisonment not exceeding two years.

Together with my colleague, the Minister of State with responsibility for Consumer Affairs, Deputy Tom Kitt, I will consider a full report from the director on completion of her investigation and if any legislative amendment is necessary to ensure that this practice is eliminated.