Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 209: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions she has had with the business sector with a view to achieving some degree of equilibrium in respect of business costs throughout Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5292/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I am in regular contact with business leaders and representative groups around the country and also receive ongoing advice from my Department and the heads of the enterprise development agencies that report to my Department. These discussions assist in framing the Government's response to all aspects of the current economic situation.

Prices across the economy have fallen substantially. The last Consumer Price Index data from the Central Statistics Office show that prices fell by 5 per cent in December 2009 compared to December 2008. A further reduction in prices is forecast for next year, meaning our cost competitiveness position in relation to our trading partners is improving.