Minister defends Celia Larkin’s nomination to NCA board

The Minister for Enterprise today defended the decision to appoint the Taoiseach's former partner to the new National Consumer Agency.

Micháel Martin criticised claims of cronyism as an "over-the-top" reaction to Celia Larkin's nomination to the interim 12-person board.

The NCA has been appointed to replace the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs, and it will have increased powers.

Michael Kilcoyne of the Consumers Association said Ms Larkin had no track record in representing or lobbying on behalf of consumers.

Mr Kilcoyne said: “She represents the hairdressing and beauty industry, which according to the Central Statistics Office figures for last year imposed price increases of about four times the rate of inflation.

“It doesn't look as if that business is interested in consumer protection.”