John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

While available resources are limited, 39 staff have been given enhanced powers that will be ring-fenced by the High Court. This will enhance the Competition Authority immensely which, as I stated, is an independent statutory body. After the due diligence currently under way has been carried out and if the advice given to the Government mirrors Deputy Tóibín's comments with regard to additional funding for the authority being deemed necessary, I have no doubt but that when the Government reviews finances in the future, it will consider such funding if it warrants value for money and a return on investment.

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