Mr. John Keane:

I thank the Deputy. I might ask Mr. Hanrahan to also comment on this issue. It is addressed in our submission but, as regards some of the headline pieces in respect of the general functions, the first general function refers to the encouragement of the adoption of practices by large companies. We would like that wording, and any other relevant wording in the general functions in respect of encouragement, promotion and so forth, to be changed to enforcement. Encouragement is all fine and well but, in terms of regulatory and legislative requirements, there is a need for stronger terminology relating to enforcement and prevention that ensures the office has as much power as possible in that regard. Point number 3, for example, refers to encouraging compliance. Market actors are either compliant or they are not. Encouraging compliance is all fine and well but we need to ensure there is compliance with this. We understand that in recent months large-scale retailers have had time to engage with the temporary office that has been set up. As there have been no investigations or fines so far, we assume the functions have been carried out and they have been compliant with the UTP legislation. Ensuring compliance is crucial. I will ask Mr. Hanrahan to speak to the importance of the Bill in terms of getting the enforcement right.