Retail sector voluntary code of practice appears unlikely

IT is very unlikely a voluntary code of practice will be agreed in the grocery goods sector, due to the wide disparity of views amongst stakeholders.

This is the conclusion of a facilitator appointed to explore the possibility of drawing-up a voluntary code, said Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Minister Richard Bruton. IFA recently said the powerful grocery multiples were fleecing farmers to bolster their profits.

But Mr Bruton said the Government is strongly committed to ensuring Ireland has vibrant agri-food and retail sectors, and that there is balance in the relationship between the various players in the grocery goods sector.

A Code of Practice in the forthcoming Competition and Consumer Bill is intended to achieve such a balance.

The minister also intends to ban a number of unfair practices in the retail sector.