Shane Ross (Independent)

If one examines it closely, this motion is window-dressing in an attempt to champion the cause of the consumer. I am suspicious when I hear the word "strategy". To me, this is a substitute for the word "action". The Government is giving itself a pat on the back for establishing a consumer strategy group that has decided to recommend a new agency, which will apparently manifest as an interim board that must function with its hands behind its back while it waits for the recommendations of a high-level appointments group. A proper board may be set up but its purpose is unclear. Senator MacSharry said he hoped it would have teeth but the Minister of State's speech indicates this will not be the case. The latter said he had "requested the interim board to immediately begin planning for the final structure and organisation of the fully fledged national consumer agency". This means nothing.

I hope the interim board will begin to develop some initiatives in the area of consumer advocacy, research, awareness and so on, as envisaged by the CSG and as this motion urges. However, I see no evidence it will have teeth and be able to take effective action in this area. I see yet another State agency being set up with the intention of fooling consumers that the Government is doing something to protect their interests.

There are fundamental questions as to whether the Government can do anything for the consumer and whether it should do so. What is certain is that the Government is trying to give the impression it is doing something for the consumer while probably doing little.