Beef up Consumers Association, says FG
Fine Gael's Phil Hogan has today cautioned the Tánaiste against setting up a politically-appointed body to address the interests of consumers and instead to strengthen the Consumers' Association of Ireland.
Tánaiste Mary Harney told the Dáil yesterday that she intends establishing a hand-picked body of people to advise her on consumer interests.
"Any new grouping which is established under the political patronage of the Tánaiste would lack the authority and independence necessary to effectively represent and articulate the interests of consumers," said Deputy Hogan.
"Instead of seeking to undermine the Consumers' Association, the Tánaiste would be well advised to provide it with proper resources and give it a clear role in the formulation and implementation of policies," he added.
