Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I passed through a town today where I counted seven large service fuel stations and not one of them offered a price that was 0.1 cent different from any of the others. I passed through the next town, ten miles away, to find there was a broad difference of ten cent between the cheapest and the dearest. It is very easy to see that seven outlets do not suddenly come on the same figure of 89.9 cent or 90.6 cent, or whatever the figure happens to be, per litre, suggesting that there is some form of conspiracy, co-ordination, or cartel operating in those situations.

Another issue I have raised several times in the past couple of months is the gap between the price paid to farmers at the farm gate and that paid by consumers at the other end. This includes the price of milk, meat and other products. There is an operation that we need to look at very closely. On a number of occasions we have discussed the question of building, housing and land development in that context, something that we need to and can do. I ask that those issues be looked at very closely.

Personal injuries is another example of an area where prices and costs can be reduced. In personal injury cases somewhere between 25% and 50% of the cost on average comprises legal fees; in other words, it never reaches the victim. This percentage very often rises to 70% or 75% but on average is somewhere between 25% and 50%, which is unacceptable and cannot continue.

Controlling inflation is a concern which everyone shares. It is not just a matter for Government, the business community or workers. It affects everybody, including consumers, families, and the broader community.

The issues outlined in the motion are important for every one of us. We must at least put our shoulders behind them to give them as much support as possible. The partnership programme will be of help in this direction but on its own will not deliver the goods. Opening up the areas which have come through in the Indecon report is crucial. Further resources for the Competition Authority are also crucial as it cannot do its work without them. I would like to see at least ten more trained or qualified detectives available to it in order that it can conduct the investigations that are necessary and will be required if it is to deliver the goods. It gives me great pleasure to support the motion.