John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

The manner in which this competition runs through the economy is an issue. The area of telecommunications, the provision of ESB and similar services should be examined. These markets should be opened as this is where the real competition will take place. These will be proper cost-effective services to industry and those who are creating jobs in this country. Such an opening will assist them greatly, whereas this debate will not. I indicate my support for the Government motion, and whatever changes come about in the context of a developing economy must be reflected in the powers given to the Competition Authority.

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