Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

When the high level interdepartmental committee reports to the Government and proposals are put forward there is no reason they cannot be discussed in a committee. That would be the appropriate place to consider them.

Part 7 was drafted to update the provisions for breaches of existing legislation that remain on the Statute Book as one of the measures of consumer protection legislation which is implemented by the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs. A major reform of company law is currently under way arising from the recommendations of the company law review group. Work on drafting the new principal Act is under way and the company law review group is assisting the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in the necessary reform of the Companies Acts.

Deputy Howlin and Deputy Hogan referred to competitiveness and Deputy Howlin recalled the Reagan years in the United States. From a European perspective, it is critical that we focus on this issue. The Lisbon Agenda is critical at this time for ensuring that Europe is competitive and enjoys economic growth. This country is fortunate in that it has managed its affairs in a way that stimulates economic growth. Competitiveness is always a challenge and we must be mindful of that and work towards ensuring that we sustain our competitiveness. If it is not sustained, it will have serious implications for economic growth in the future.

Between the domestic management of competitiveness, the requirement to update the legislation on a continuous basis and the Lisbon Agenda at European level, there is plenty to be addressed. However, it is important that this legislation is passed and that, where possible, we improve our legislation. Some of the changes we have made today will be of benefit to the consumer. On that basis, we have done a good day's work.

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