Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

We regularly have debates on competition and ensuring the consumer gets a good deal. Many Members would have been appalled to see reports in recent days about the significant increases proposed by car rental companies for the Christmas period, especially at airports. I have heard reports that the costs are to be increased by up to 200%. One report even suggested a possible increase of 325%. I refer to international companies that operate in various jurisdictions, not only in the EU but throughout the world. It appears the proposed exorbitant increases are exclusive to Ireland. We should have a debate on competition and related issues. I find it difficult to square the logic of having price controls — which we had — in difficult economic times in the 1970s and 1980s when consumers had little discretionary spending power, and not having such controls in place when profiteering is clearly taking place in many sectors. We should examine whether there is merit in having price controls and pricing orders in the present scenario.

I support the call by Senator Mooney for a debate on the recent report on smoking for underage persons, those in the 12 to 17 age group, which shows that one in six are smoking and 92% have said they are able to purchase cigarettes from regular outlets, even though underage. There is a significant breach of the law in this regard. Given that over 6,000 people die annually as a consequence of smoking, such a debate would be welcome.