Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Again, the specific sectoral issues that arise should be addressed to the Minister concerned. Thankfully, prices came down last year and all the statistical data confirm that. Whether that can be totally accounted for by the abolition of the groceries order is a moot point but it is a fact that food prices have come down. With regard to the issue of "Hello" money, I understand the National Consumer Agency has been pursuing this matter but proof is not as easily obtained evidentially as it is anecdotally. One understands that there might well be pressures on suppliers as to how frank or candid they might be on this, but clearly it is a practice, if it exists in any area of the retail trade or in the abuse of a dominant position by large multiples, which cannot be condoned in any circumstances.

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