Vol. 561 No. 4
116 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to a recent survey in a newspaper (details supplied) showing that a basket of groceries purchased in Dublin cost considerably more than other EU capitals surveyed; the steps being taken to ensure that consumers are not being exploited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4427/03]
I am aware of the article referred to by the Deputy and consider that such reports are to be welcomed in the interests of heightening consumer awareness. I am seriously concerned at the variation in prices which the article indicates. The only effective way to positively affect price levels in the interests of ordinary consumers is to facilitate effective competition and to ensure that shoppers have the necessary choice and information so that they can get the best value available in the goods and services they require. The Competition Authority has the resources and the autonomy to investigate the reasons for price levels which do not seem justifiable and to report publicly on its findings. Investigations are currently under way into a range of professional services, including those provided by doctors, dentists, solicitors, barristers and architects.
In the policy areas for which I have political responsibility, I will act promptly on any recommendations which the Competition Authority makes to me. I have already taken the steps necessary to strengthen the powers of the Competition Authority to investigate price fixing and other anti-competitive practices and my priority is to ensure the removal of unwarranted restrictions on competition in all sectors of the economy. Following a review, I have updated the requirement to indicate product prices regulations. The purpose of these new regulations is to help consumers to be better informed about prices, to make accurate price comparisons between different brands and sizes and, thereby, to get the best available value for money through stimulating more effective competition among retailers and suppliers. I am confident that this clarification and revision of the layout of the previous regulations will make the legislation more transparent and accessible for consumers and traders. The new regulations require that consumers be given a selling price for products and a unit price for goods sold by weight or volume. The regulations come into force on 1 March next and will be enforced rigorously by the Director of Consumer Affairs. In addition, I have increased the penalties to a maximum of €3,000 per offence. The new social partnership agreement includes provision for an anti-inflation initiative and my Department will be represented on the group that is to be specially convened to draw up a detailed action plan in this regard and monitor its progress.
