asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he is aware of delays in the delivery of coal to domestic users including old people; and if legislation on competition in this area should be reviewed.

I am aware that delays of up to three or four weeks had occurred in the delivery of coal in the Dublin area some time ago but that these were due mainly to a build-up of orders before Christmas and the severe weather in January which prevented an immediate clearance of the backlog. These delays have now been eliminated and the time lag involved reduced to a matter of days. Also, I understand that special arrangements are made for old age pensioners to ensure that their orders get special attention.

Legislative action on competition in this area would be a matter for the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Tourism. Recent and impending developments in the coal trade indicate an increasing element of competition. While the position will continue to be kept under review in consultation with the Minister concerned, there does not, at the present time, appear to be the need for legislative action.