Vol. 554 No. 5
191 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action proposed to control or reduce the exorbitant price of soft drinks in public houses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16943/02]
There are no plans to introduce price controls in this sector. Price control as a policy mechanism has not been pursued by Governments here since the 1980s. It is not effective or appropriate in a modern market economy. Successive Governments have recognised that the promotion of a competitive environment, with greater price transparency coupled with consumer awareness and vigilance, are the best ways of ensuring value for money.
