The Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Harney, has been sharply criticised for her failure to investigate the proposed takeover of United Beverages Holdings by Guinness Ireland.
Mr Pat Rabbitte of Democratic Left described the Tanaiste's failure to meet the 30-day deadline for referral of the proposed takeover to the Competition Authority as "an incredible cock-up."
A major development, which would have a profound impact on the future of the Irish drinks industry, would not now receive the scrutiny it required. The failure was unforgivable because the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Employment was responsible for policing and enforcing the Mergers Act, Mr Rabbitte's statement issued yesterday said.
In opposition Ms Harney was very quick to demand that Ministers accept full responsibility for administrative failures, Mr Rabbitte said. She must now accept responsibility for this "extraordinary failure".