Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I am sure the Senator will not charge me for the luxury of that.

The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, which comprises Members from all sides, has looked at roaming charges as well as the cost of text messages and the general prices charged by mobile telephone companies in Ireland. In terms of roaming, it would almost be cheaper to take out a mortgage and buy a property abroad than to pay one's mobile telephone bill on returning to Ireland. It is absolutely unbelievable. The European Union, Commission and Members of the European Parliament have paid particular attention to this issue. We all know there is overcharging and we know what needs to be done. I ask the Minister of State, Deputy Kelleher, to ensure that those at the highest levels in Government show some imagination in this area.

The Government must lead the way and create a shoppers task force. A group of people, somewhat like "An Bord Snip", must be tasked with looking at all the issues affecting the hard-pressed consumers, especially bearing in mind that the budget was most severe on those who have the least. If consumer confidence is to return and the market is to be rebooted, measures like this, which may seem insignificant, are very important. People's disposable incomes are under pressure and thousands will find this Christmas the most difficult in 25 years.

I hope the Minister of State will give serious consideration to this motion, acknowledge the spirit in which it is tabled and ensure that this Christmas is not as difficult as it could be. The Government can lead the way and we will support it.