asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he will undertake an investigation to establish whether butchers have been engaged in profiteering through charging exorbitantly high prices for prime lamb.

The Minister has already asked the National Prices Commission to carry out as a matter of urgency an investigation into the recent increases in the price of lamb. This investigation is in progress.

When can we expect to have the result of this investigation?

As soon as possible. The Minister has asked the National Prices Commission to have a study of the whole matter undertaken urgently.

Is there any time limit on the production of a report of the study?

No.

Is it expected that a result will be available within the next couple of months?

I should hope so.