Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for her comprehensive response which provided a good overview of the excellent cross-agency work that is being done. While I recognise again that good work is being done by business, the banks and the Garda Síochána, we need to take the next step. The Minister of State referred to the White Paper on fraud which is being produced. I would appreciate if she could pass on the feedback I am delivering on behalf of retailers on the issue of the address verification system. We run the risk of making this issue excessively complicated. A simple technique used in the address verification system works in a number of other countries, including among our competitors. I welcome the Minister of State's acknowledgement that any losses experienced by businesses through fraud are even more painful at present because they are fighting for survival and to retain and create jobs. I ask, therefore, that the Department give extensive consideration to the address verification system.

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