Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael)

I am responding on the motion on behalf of the Minister of State, Deputy Dillon. I thank the members of the Social Democrats for their contributions this morning and thank all Members of the House for their varied and interesting comments.

I begin by reiterating that the Government fully acknowledges the concerns raised in this Private Members' motion regarding the rising cost of groceries and the financial strain and burden it places on households, families and people throughout the country. We understand the pressures that families, people and vulnerable groups are facing and we are committed to addressing these challenges in a meaningful and effective way. It is important to emphasise that the Government is not standing still on the issue. We are actively progressing a comprehensive suite of targeted measures designed to support consumers, enhance market transparency and strengthen regulatory oversight in the grocery sector. These actions are grounded in evidence, informed by expert analysis and aligned with our broader commitment to fairness and competition in the marketplace.

We recognise that food inflation has been a persistent concern. While recent trends show some easing, we remain vigilant. I have heard the concerns of Members this morning. I myself shop, despite some of the comments earlier, and there is a genuine concern among everybody about the cost of shopping and the grocery bill and other issues as well.

The Government has already taken significant steps to monitor and respond to developments in the grocery sector. This includes leveraging the expertise of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, which plays a central role in safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring markets operate fairly and efficiently. In light of the existing regulatory framework, the active enforcement of consumer protection law and the significant reforms already under way, the Government does not believe the additional powers proposed in the Private Members' motion are necessary or proportionate at this time. While we share the objective of protecting consumers and ensuring fair pricing, we must also ensure that any new measures are evidence-based, targeted and capable of delivering real impact without any unintended consequences.

Rather than adopting broad or duplicate powers, the Government recommends a more focused and data-driven approach to strengthening transparency and competition in our grocery sector. This approach is not only more sustainable, it is also more likely to yield tangible benefits for consumers in the short and long term. To that end, the Government is advancing a number of targeted actions, including strengthening the powers of the CCPC; ensuring it has the necessary tools and resources to be able to investigate and address anti-competitive practices effectively; levering the CCPC state of competition analysis, which provides a robust evidence base for identifying market trends, potential distortions and areas requiring intervention; updating the CCPC's 2023 high-level analysis of the Irish grocery retail sector to reflect current market dynamics and inform future policy decisions; supporting consumer empowerment measures, including initiatives to improve price transparency, promote informed purchasing decisions and enhance public awareness of consumer rights. These actions reflect a balanced and proactive strategy which addresses the root causes of concern while preserving the integrity and independence of our regulatory institutions. They also demonstrate the Government's commitment to continuous improvement, accountability and responsiveness to the evolving needs of the Irish consumer.

While we appreciate the intent behind the Private Members' motion and genuinely understand and hear the frustration of people - despite some of the commentary, we are not living in ivory towers and are not aloof; we live among and in our communities - we believe the Government's current and planned measures represent a more effective and proportionate response. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including Members of the House, to ensure our grocery sector remains competitive, transparent and fair for all. The Government will continue to monitor developments closely, adapt our approach as needed and ensure that the interests of consumers remain at the heart of our economic and social policy.

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