Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

I thank all Deputies who contributed to the debate on the Bill, particularly those who spoke to its content. I remind them that the Bill is very focused and aims to deal with a limited number of issues that need immediate attention. A number of very interesting points were made. I will respond to some of them and study and give serious consideration to others in the context of other legislation under preparation.

In referring Deputy Varadkar to the follow-up to recommendations made in the Competition Authority report, I stress that these are recommendations only. The Government gave a commitment to publish a whole-of-government response to the recommendations contained in the Competition Authority reports, as set out in the Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal document which builds on Ireland's smart economy. On 10 April, the Government issued a statement in which it noted the progress being made in this regard. I remind the Deputy of the contents of the statement. It noted that 40% of Competition Authority recommendations made between 2000 and 2009 have been implemented and a further 9% were being progressed. It is important to recall the important issues that have been addressed.

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