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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 5 Nov 2002

Vol. 556 No. 3

Written Answers. - Price Controls.

Charlie O'Connor

Ceist:

156 Mr. O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if action is open to her to control the prices being charged in many licensed premises throughout the country for mineral waters and soft drinks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20195/02]

The Retail Price (Beverages in Licensed Premises) Display Order, 1991, requires that the price of alcoholic and soft drinks be displayed immediately outside or immediately inside each entrance to a licensed premises. The purpose of the order is to ensure that consumers are aware of the prices charged before they elect to enter a licensed premises.

I am implacably opposed to the reintroduction of price control. It is an ineffective and discredited policy instrument that has no place in a modern economy. I believe that greater competition in the licensed trade would be the most effective way of bringing about a reduction in the prices of beverages sold on such premises. A review of the licensing regime is being undertaken by the Commission on Liquor Licensing established in 2001 by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

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