Watchdog without teeth

IN the lexicon of political jargon, the buzz word in vogue is “competitiveness”.

From Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to Tánaiste Mary Harney and the world of business, the notion of competition is the flavour of the month.

Ironically, however, the sole State authority tasked with policing such anti-competitive practices as cartel price-fixing, is so emasculated as to be incapable of doing its job properly.

In the words of its chairman, Dr John Fingleton, the Competition Authority is seriously hindered by its lack of power to impose fines on those purposely restricting competition in the market place.

Powerless to impose sanctions, it has to take either a civil or criminal case through the courts.

Only in the event of a successful criminal prosecution can a financial penalty be levied. It could not, for example, emulate its British counterpart in fining firms, including Manchester United, 26m for price fixing on football kits.

Ireland’s Competition Authority cannot crack down on cartels known to be ripping off consumers. If the Taoiseach is really serious about competition, he should give the authority teeth and end this ludicrous situation.