Representatives of the fuel industry have told Government that they intend to co-operative fully with the consumer watchdog in a price gouging probe into the recent spike in home heating oil, petrol and diesel costs.

Minister for Enterprise Pete Burke approached the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) on Wednesday asking that they investigate public suspicions of price gouging on fuel.

“I had a constructive meeting today with representatives from the fuel industry,” Minister Burke commented on Friday.

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“I welcomed the opportunity to discuss the current energy market and pricing structures, along with the international factors impacting costs in a very uncertain geopolitical environment.

“I highlighted the current CCPC investigation, and providers expressed that they are more than happy to cooperate fully and will encourage their members to do the same.

“The CCPC has a strong mandate to protect consumers and ensure competition law is fully complied with.”

The minister said that it was brought to his attention that “retail workers have come under significant abuse in recent days”.

“I want to make it clear that this behaviour is unacceptable, and no one should take their frustration out on any retail worker.”

Helpline

In Wednesday’s statement, Minister Burke encouraged members of the public to contact the CCPC via ask@ccpc.ie or via their helpline at 01 402 5555 in relation to recent increases in home heating oil and fuel.

“I am assured by the CCPC that these complaints will be carefully and urgently assessed,” Minister Burke said this week.

“Our consumer watchdog can avail of a range of powers to investigate and prosecute where clear breaches of the law are evident.

“The CCPC can impose fines of up €10m in certain circumstances of breaches or 10% of a company’s turnover.”