Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senators who contributed to the debate.

Senator Coghlan referred to the Fine Gael Private Members' Bill that was voted down in the Dáil some time ago. That Bill did not go as far as the proposal currently before the House. Furthermore, it would have done nothing to effectively transpose the unfair commercial practices directive and would have left us in breach of our obligations.

Other Senators referred to the rate of inflation and accused the Government of contributing thereto. I am not sure what national governments are expected to do about external factors — such as increases in oil or commodity prices — outside their control. There are, however, instances where we can do something. For example, we took action in respect of groceries order and costs were brought under control as a result. The cost of groceries has declined by 1.6% since the order was removed last March.

Senator Coghlan is being unfair to the NCA in suggesting it did nothing in response to the closure of BUPA. The NCA was first into the fray and within 24 hours had placed extensive advice for consumers on its website. Perhaps the Senator was unaware of that.