Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I am aware of it. A number of issues arise, including that of price tracking. The Competition Authority has been requested to examine a number of issues. It has already produced two reports on competitiveness and is currently preparing another one. There is no indication of anti-competitive practices within the market.

It is important to state — this issue was discussed in committee — that often it is the market that determines the price. We anticipate that the market will reflect any swings or changes in consumer attitude and power. We are currently trying to ensure this is what happens. I accept it is happening at present to a small extent.

In my previous capacity as Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, an issue of grave concern was the primary consumer who had not had an increase in income capacity for a considerable period, yet the consumer was discontent with prices in this area. There are differentials involved. If one reads the front page of The Farmers' Journal, one will note there has been a reduction in the price of dairy products. The fact that trading and commodities has increased considerably in the world market is outside our capacity. This is putting a great deal of financial pressure on people.

It is important, if we are to change the market and provide real value for money for the consumer, that we empower the consumer to allow this to happen. I am determined — I know we are all ad idem on this — to ensure people obtain transferability from the sterling-euro differential.

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