Mr. Garrett Blaney:

I will begin by responding to the question on Brexit and the issue of tariffs. We have not seen any indication of tariffs and it is certainly clear from the relevant White Paper that the UK does not see any tariffs applying, particularly in the energy sector. We do not believe that tariffs should be applied. From our point of view, that would be an adverse development, whether it be gas or electricity, and we would strongly argue for a tariff-free approach. If tariffs were to apply to either or both, they would have a significant impact on consumers. We will need to keep a close eye on that as it develops.

On Deputy Stanley's question on overreach and what are we doing at a European level, a European board of regulators is referred to in this package. It already exists and I sit on that board. Deputy Dooley mentioned Slovenia and the board is based there, so I am a regular visitor to Slovenia to attend those meetings. I also chair one of the working groups in that and we are developing a set of white papers as a result of this package to influence MEPs, the Commission or anyone else who will listen to us at European level.

We are very actively engaged in that, both on our own behalf and as part of the collective body of European regulators. We are arguing for what we think is good for both Ireland and for regulators generally at a European level. I will hand over to my colleague to cover the consumer end. Ms MacEvilly is the lead commissioner on consumer issues.