Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for bringing forward the Bill. As has been stated, it is technical in nature, with the main aim of including palladium and mixed precious metals on the list of precious metals which may be hallmarked by the Irish Assay Office. On foot of the Bill being brought forward, I was kindly invited to and subsequently visited the assay office in October of last year to better inform myself about the process of hallmarking and the changes the Bill was seeking to bring about. I wish to thank John Harbourne and Robert White who invited us to the office, showed us around and explained in great detail the impressive history and operations of the assay office which dates back to 1637. I was very impressed by the set-up of the office in Dublin Castle and the expertise of its staff. Similar to most people, I had limited knowledge of hallmarking, but the visit made me acutely aware of its significance. The assay office is a very impressive and effective organisation staffed by people who have a deep desire to ensure customers are protected and Irish jewellery retains its extremely high reputation for quality. I was encouraged to see that it is exploring opportunities arising from Brexit and the potential benefits for Ireland and our hallmarking institutions. Hallmarking is a very niche process and I was delighted to have the opportunity to better understand its history, system and importance.

Members were probably contacted by jewellers' representatives groups on the Bill. Most were happy with the provisions of the Bill, but some wanted weight exemptions included. After carrying out research and consulting with the representative bodies, we concluded that no amendments for weight exemptions should be introduced in order to ensure the high quality of Irish products is maintained and to protect consumers. We were happy to support the Bill in its original format and will similarly support its amended form. I thank the Minister for bringing forward the Bill and thank the staff of the assay office for their important work in this area. The Irish Assay Office has been in operation for the past 381 years. I hope the changes contained in the Bill will help to protect the high quality of Irish jewellery for years to come.

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