Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 99: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of the groceries order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11564/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Restrictive Practices (Groceries) Order was designed to regulate the grocery sector in Ireland in 1987. The order contains a number of provisions aimed at curbing anti-competitive practices such as the selling of grocery goods at "below net invoice price", "hello money" and boycotting. The order covers all grocery goods as well as intoxicating liquor and other household goods ordinarily sold in grocery shops. It does not cover fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, fresh and frozen meat, and fish. Enforcement of the order is the responsibility of the Director of Consumer Affairs.

I recently received the report of the consumer strategy group which has made recommendations on a wide range of consumer issues including the groceries order. I am discussing the group's findings with my Government colleagues and arrangements will be made to publish the report as soon as possible.

Once the report is published, I intend to consult with all interested parties in regard to the groceries order. I am also aware of the findings of the Joint Committee on Enterprise and Small Business in its recent report on the impact of the grocery multiples. I will take the views of all interested parties into consideration before deciding how to proceed in the matter.

Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 100: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the consumer strategy group report will be forthcoming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11565/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The consumer strategy group presented its final report to me on 2 March 2005. I am considering the report and its recommendations in conjunction with my colleagues in Government. I expect to publish the report and will announce my proposals in regard to progressing the recommendations in the coming weeks.