Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

We are in a position to put this right. We must educate our consumers, give them choice and tell them how to spend their money. Many people spend without thinking because they have so much spending power. We have been ripped off because the retailers saw us coming. They were smarter than us — they saw money in our pockets and increased their prices accordingly. There was no regulation or system.

This new agency will give a voice to the consumer. I am delighted that voice will be heard in the future. I have often wanted to go to the media to call for redress for high prices. Even if we do nothing else the consumer will be very glad we have put new structures in place. I hope the Minister will implement this proposal. I remain cautious about how we will revisit the groceries order. I want to protect the small trader, because small is beautiful in this regard.