Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2004
188 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the price of oil in euro terms continues to fall; when he expects the consumers of home heating oil will enjoy the benefits of this decrease; the steps his Department will take to ensure these benefits are passed on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32999/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are no price controls in place on home heating oil and I am not in a position to force suppliers to reduce the price when input costs fall. Notwithstanding this, I believe suppliers have an obligation to pass on reductions in raw material costs in the form of lower prices. I think this is particularly so because there is a perception that suppliers are sometimes quick to pass on price increases when costs move in the opposite direction. The most effective form of price control is competition in the market place and it is the responsibility of my Department, the Competition Authority and the Director of Consumer Affairs to ensure that the market operates fairly and to the benefit of all consumers. I urge consumers to make themselves aware of the prices charged by the various suppliers of this product so that they can avail themselves of the best prices.
If the Deputy is aware of any factors that might be inhibiting competition in the market for home heating oil, I would be delighted to hear from her and I will certainly arrange for her concerns to be passed on to the Competition Authority or other appropriate enforcement agencies.
