Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

In relation to the letter sent by RGDATA, I agree with it regarding the minimum grocery order issued by the Minister. Removing it would not assist smaller grocery outlets. Loss leaders were a major problem some years ago and that is why the order was introduced. Also, I believe the current size of supermarkets is at the maximum that should be allowed. There are no grounds for increasing supermarket sizes beyond current limits. This was supported by the Joint Committee on Enterprise and Small Business in a previous Parliament on both grounds. I know that it is not before the Government at present, but I believe the Minister is aware of the situation in rural areas. RGDATA has put forward a reasonable argument. The order was only changed in 2001 in relation to retail space.

During the summer months I hope there will be an opportunity for further analysis of prices. Inflation, as the Minister said, is being well fought at present and his Department is doing its utmost to keep the situation under control. I would like further strengthening of the Consumers' Association of Ireland. It is a voluntary organisation, dependent on contributions, and does not have the same clout as the major companies in relation to prices.

In relation to the price of petrol and diesel, the Irish Independent of 10 June highlighted that it costs about €270 per year in rip-offs in relation to two different prices. Newspapers and local radio stations in particular should have consumer programmes, the latter because they are aware of the situation on the ground in their respective areas.