Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I am happy to comment on that. I will consider further the point Deputy Carthy is making in this instance. It is a different point from the one he made before. This relates to the regulator consulting and engaging with consumers. This section already empowers the regulator to consult with anyone the regulator considers could assist in the performance of its functions. It already has the capacity to engage with consumers. What we want to achieve is a regulator that brings about transparency in the food supply chain. Everyone, including consumers, has a stake in and wants to see that. This section enables the regulator to engage with anyone it sees fit. The Deputy is requesting that consumers be specified but they are already covered.

This is different from the point we discussed at the last meeting, which related to changing the nature of the regulator to usurp the powers of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission which has responsibility for protecting consumers' rights at the moment. In this Bill we are trying to provide protection to primary producers. In this instance, the Deputy is suggesting the regulator could be assisted in its work by engaging with consumers, among others. In principle, I do not have an issue with that, but I will reflect on the point further before Report Stage.