Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 151: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the legal basis which exists for the introduction of price controls; if such controls would conflict with European law; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4191/09]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The Consumer Protection Act 2007 permits the Government, where they are of the opinion that abnormal circumstances exist in relation to the supply of a product, to make an order declaring that a state of emergency exists affecting the supply of that product and to fix, by way of a further order, the maximum price at which the product may be supplied to consumers.

Competition and consumer choice have been the preferred means of successive Governments in the area of tackling prices. Vigorous competition and strong consumer protection are essential parts in maintaining a vibrant economy. In so far as current difficulties in the area of north south price differentials are concerned, I have actively engaged with the retail sector over the past number of months to ensure that Irish consumers benefit by way of lower prices from the appreciation in the value of the Euro, particularly against sterling. I am determined to pursue all links in the retail chain including retailers, distributors, suppliers to ensure that there is the greatest transparency in relation to the reasons for the substantial differentials in prices between this jurisdiction and Northern Ireland and the UK. In this regard, I would wish to assure the Deputy that the Government are committed to exploring all options to ensure that Irish consumers get a fair deal.