Paddy McHugh (Galway East, Independent)
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Question 101: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the Restrictive Practices (Groceries) Order 1987; his further views on the recommendation for its abolition by the consumer strategy group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17718/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I have noted the consumer strategy group's recommendation that the groceries order be revoked in its entirety. I noted also the recent report of the Joint Committee on Enterprise and Small Business which recommended that the order be retained in its current form. In light of these divergent views and the complexity of the issues involved, I have initiated a public consultation process whereby parties are invited to make submissions on the order by 31 July 2005. I am especially interested to know whether public opinion supports the recommendation of the consumer strategy group or favours amending or replacing the order. I will consider all views put forward before deciding what action, if any, is appropriate.

Comments, observations or submissions on the groceries order should be sent to the consumer policy section of my Department at Earlsfort Centre, Lower Hatch Street, Dublin 2 or by e-mail to groceriesorder@entemp.ie.