Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment has done a welcome U-turn on the need for effective legislation to control the power of multiples. I am somewhat concerned about a comment attributed to a spokesperson for the Minister in one of today's publications. It indicated there was adequate legislation under competition laws to deal with the matter. Will the Taoiseach clarify the matter on legislation in this regard? We are led to believe a voluntary code will be followed by a statutory code of conduct but when will the legislation be produced?

Further to the debate we had on the Lost at Sea scheme report from the Ombudsman, the Seanad will consider the report later this week. In the Taoiseach's opinion, does sterile debate on these matters in both the Dáil and Seanad constitute consideration of this matter as requested by the Office of the Ombudsman? Will the Taoiseach give his colleague and friend, Deputy Fahey, an opportunity to go before a committee on the matter?

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