Kitt To Meet Retail Representative Organisations To Discuss Anti-Inflation Strategy "All Players Must Play Their Part In Curbing Inflationary Pressures" – Kitt "Consumers Can Be Powerful Impetus In Fight Against Inflation"

Minister for Consumer Affairs, Tom Kitt, T.D., today (Thursday 13th July, 2000) confirmed that he is planning to meet next week with the major retail representative organisations including RGDATA, the Food & Drink Association and the Irish Hardware Association. The planned meeting is part of the Government’s ongoing strategy to address current inflationary pressures in the economy.

Minister Kitt said "In our recently announced anti-inflationary package, the Government has expressed its particular concern about reports of unwarranted price increases being imposed in some sectors. Together with the Government, I have always been most anxious that retailers contribute to countering inflation by behaving in a responsible fashion. In this context, I am arranging a meeting with the major retail representative organisations to impress upon them the need for them to play their part in addressing current inflationary pressures head on."

"Society and the economy as a whole has benefited significantly in recent years from our sustained economic growth achieved through social partnership. It is in this spirit of partnership that I will be meeting the retail representative to hear how they feel they can play their part in meeting the challenge of reversing recent trends". added the Minister.

In announcing his intention to meet with representatives from the retail sector, Minister Kitt also welcomed the announcement by the Supervalu supermarket chain of a 5p per litre reduction in the price of milk.

The Minister said "I have consistently advocated that competition is the most powerful weapon available in the fight against inflation. I am determined that consumers should be in a position to make informed choices as to where the best value can be obtained. This is why the Director of Consumer Affairs will be engaging in a major awareness campaign to bring this message home to consumers.

"I hope that this downward trend can be continued and that other retailers might follow suit. I also hope that the trend might result in significant reductions on other foodstuffs and household goods as soon as possible. By exercising their right to shop around for best value consumers are in a position to add a powerful impetus to the fight against inflation," the Minister concluded.