Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I asked whether it was his opinion that this is the wrong time to remove the Regulated Tariff Formula in view of the fact that competition is so vital in the economy. I do not accept his claim that it is the responsibility of CER. I can recall the Minister coming into this House during the past 12 months when he used considerable influence to reduce the price of natural gas which had declined on the wholesale market. Also by his appointment of the new regulator, the Minister is, in effect, in charge of CER. It is important to know what is his policy. Does the Minister agree that the removal of RTF at that stage would not be beneficial for the consumer and small industries as there would no longer be a transparent pricing system for gas which could lead to a dominant position for Bord Gáis which could stifle competition?

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