Shane Ross (Independent)

I move:

Seanad Éireann, seeking to ensure trust and confidence in the process of auctioneering, calls on the Government to establish a group, predominantly comprising non-auctioneers, for the special purpose of drawing up a Code of Ethics and Professional Standards applicable to auctioneers in the course of their professional work. Such Code to be implemented by order, regulation or legislation and to include, inter alia:–a requirement that, prior to undertaking any auctioneering transaction auctioneers be required to make a declaration of interest if they themselves, fellow employees or family members have any beneficial interest in the transaction either as vendor or purchaser;

–an entitlement by bidders or their representatives to be present at the opening of all sealed bids;

–a requirement that all properties have a published guide price;

–an insistence that no property be withdrawn in the event that a bid exceeds the guide price;

–a requirement that all auctioneers maintain for inspection by an approved authority a record of all bids and bidders; and

–an appropriate system to facilitate the investigation of complaints by bidders who believe that they have not been fairly treated in the course of an auctioneering transaction.

With the permission of the House, I will speak for ten minutes, followed by Senator O'Toole, who will speak for ten minutes. Is it possible to allow Senator O'Toole to reply to the debate as I will be absent?