Shane Ross (Independent)

Employers behave extremely irresponsibly on this matter. The Irish Business and Employers Confederation is an apologist for the food industry which has raised prices to an unforgivable level. This should not be allowed and should be investigated. Employers also behave irresponsibly with regard to banks and credit cards and this is another area which should be examined. It contributes to the cost of living.

Senator Bannon mentioned semi-State bodies such as Bord Gáis, the ESB and the VHI. State employers contribute to the increase in the cost base. We should debate this matter and not take the easy course and state the cost base is too high and too many people work. We should examine both sides and ask why the cost base is so high. Both sides of industry should come under scrutiny because it could be a serious matter for us.