Mr. Daragh Connolly:

We see an increased consumer confidence. I think it is safe to say that the worst is over, but the retail trend has changed. People, rightly, are much more discerning on what they will buy, and they are much more conscious of the value of their own money. I see in my own business that what is most important now is the added value. Where does Ms Horan's pharmacy or my own add value for the patient or the customer? We see the most growth where we give most advice, either as pharmacists or through our trained staff, be that in beauty, cosmetics, nutrition or the different services that we offer. I am glad to see that there is recognition of a high quality of service. It is just not about penny-pinching and everything being cheaper. That is a more realistic foundation on which to build retail. However, we need the help of legislators when it comes to taxes and rates not being effective on the online businesses that are crucifying us. As the committee will know from other retailers, if I display a bottle of perfume with the tester attached, somebody can come in, smell it, and decide to buy it for €2 less online at home.