Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am sure that the Minister of State, and everyone in the House, will agree that the complete lack of regulation of gift vouchers is being exploited by many. Consumers are being severely and negatively impacted. Many people who are in receipt of vouchers and gift vouchers are children, especially at Christmas time. When they go to use the vouchers to make a purchase with them, often they suffer a loss and huge disappointment. It is high time that something concrete was put in place in this regard. Fianna Fáil is publishing a Bill next week to deal with the matter. If it comes before the House we hope that the Minister of State will support it.

The Minister of State, Deputy Breen has made reference to what he is trying to achieve within his Department. Perhaps the Minister of State will specify what the consumer rights Bill will do in respect of time limits, discounting and the loss of vouchers. It is a big issue and it has been brought to our attention. People lose their vouchers from time to time and when they seek to recover or acquire a replacement voucher they are met with stonewalling from many retailers.

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