The Government gave its approval today (Tuesday 1st June 1999) to a proposal from Mary Harney, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to repeal the Cement Acts, 1933-1962.

"I have secured the agreement of the Government to proceed with the repeal of this licensing regime for the manufacture of cement which originated in the era of protection. Its continued existence is unnecessary. This kind of outdated regulation could discourage market entry or restrict the potential for greater price competition. The cement industry no longer needs a manufacturing licensing regime to determine the pace of development in our home market," the Tánaiste said.

The Tánaiste said "I believe that a deregulated regime will encourage new market entrants to manufacture cement in Ireland leading to greater domestic competition and a better deal for purchasers of cement products. My objective is to facilitate more players in the market in the interest of keener price competition, as quickly as possible. In 1997, the price of cement in Ireland - IR£56 e71.11) per tonne - was the fifth highest in the EU."