Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 405: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the discussions he has held with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with regard to the threat facing the agrifood industry as a result of large retailers replacing Irish produce with products from Britain; the action he will take to ensure the future of the agrifood industry is protected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18866/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The contractual relationship between retailers and suppliers is a matter in the first instance for the contracting parties themselves and not one in which governments can intervene. However the Competition Acts do prohibit unfair practices and the Competition Authority established under these Acts has a statutory role in ensuring that markets including the retail sector operate freely. If there is evidence of retailers engaging in prohibited practices, I would urge the Deputy to bring such evidence to the attention of the Competition Authority in order that it may be investigated fully.

The Government has demonstrated its continued commitment to the development of the food sector. A range of measures have been put in place in line with the strategy set out in the Agri-Vision 2015 Report.