Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Independent commissions of the type recommended by the Competition Authority already work very well in Northern Ireland, England, Wales, Australia and New Zealand, and seem to enhance the reputation and credibility of the profession. Does the Government accept the Competition Authority report in respect of the provision of an independent legal commission to run the profession?

We have had reports on the implementation of regulators and regulations that were supposed to benefit the consumer. Despite having regulators, this clearly has not worked to the extent it should in the transport area, and we have the highest electricity costs of many countries and are way behind on broadband.

Arising from the Taoiseach's response, has the Government considered the Competition Authority's report? Does the Government accept the recommendation for the appointment of an independent legal commission to take over those duties? I pose the question in the context that everybody has to deal with their legal representatives at some stage in their lives and the regulations should be clearly understood by all consumers. While the vast majority of practising solicitors do their job as they should, the situation should be watertight and above board. Does the Taoiseach accept the Competition Authority's report? Does he agree with the recommendation concerning an independent legal commission and, if so, when will the Government act on it?

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