Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recently attended the AGM and conference of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers, of which I am an honorary member. Quite a number of its members spoke about a certain matter at the event. While I was aware of one instance I must confess that I had not heard such concern before. Apparently, there are a number of unlicensed auctioneers operating throughout the State. A recent article featured in the Irish Farmers' Journal alleged that a number of marts do not have licensed auctioneers. I understand such auctioneers are able to advertise freely alongside licensed auctioneers and the public are unaware of the status of the former. Also, it was alleged to me that agents from Northern Ireland practise in some of the Border counties. I was reminded by one person that the national Property Services Regulatory Authority is three years in existence. That fact disturbed me slightly and that is why I am interested in hearing what the current position is and how it is viewed. I am grateful to the Minister of State for coming to the House to answer today.