Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I am sure the Members are concerned by the criticism of the Competition Authority on the front page of Public Affairs Ireland, which states that the authority relies too heavily on its advocacy role and is not utilising its enforcement powers to full capacity. The point is made that it can make a difference to prevent consumers from being ripped off by anti-competitive behaviour by using its enforcement powers. Apparently, according to the economist Patrick Massey, it is not doing so. I am unsure if a report has been published, but if this is the case, can the Leader of the House arrange a debate on it? It is important that we do so.

On the point I raised yesterday regarding pensions, I support Senator Ryan. It would be a very useful debate in this House. I also raise the promised Employment Permits Bill and the new Defamation Bill. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, gave a preview of it to a selected group last night. When does the Leader of the House expect those Bills? Will they be initiated in this House? The Leader might give an indication as to when the Members can expect both of them.