Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

In light of the very weighty debate that has just taken place, the matter I wish to raise might seem trivial but is very important to householders and consumers. I refer to the fact that manufacturers have taken to reducing the size of products while not reducing the price in respect of them. In actuality, this represents a price increase. I intend to name three products in respect of which this has happened in recent times. Manufacturers are increasing prices in a deceitful and deceptive way and they believe they are pulling the wool over people's eyes. They are doing so at a time when we want Ireland to be competitive in every respect. One of the products in question is Fairy washing-up liquid. Some Members may not have used this product recently, particularly in view of the fact that they spend so much time in the Seanad. The size of the Fairy washing-up liquid bottle has been reduced from 450 ml to 433 ml.