Seanad debates

Thursday, 31 January 2019

Consumer Protection (Gift Vouchers) Bill 2018: Committee and Remaining Stages

 

12:15 pm

Photo of Heather HumphreysHeather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Members for their support for the Bill. As I stated on Second Stage last week, the Bill deals with an issue of considerable importance for consumers and businesses. Most of us have given or received a gift voucher at some stage. A great many retailers and service providers in all parts of the country issue vouchers and view them as an important element of their business. Therefore, it is vital that consumers who buy or receive vouchers are adequately protected from unfair practices.

The Bill provides a number of necessary protections in a fair and balanced way. Although no amendments have been tabled by Senators, a number made some interesting points during our debates last week and today. I have invited Senators to make me aware of unfair practices relating to gift vouchers that are not addressed in the Bill. I take Senator Ó Céidigh's point about what happens in the event of a company going into receivership or liquidation. While I do not believe I can address it in this Bill, I will examine the matter. I want to extend the expiry date for gift vouchers to a minimum of five years, but I would still urge consumers to cash those gift vouchers instead of holding onto them. They should use them. There are no guarantees that the company will still be in business when someone wants to use a voucher. That is the risk of not cashing vouchers. If I can introduce further amendments that protect the best interests of consumers, I will consider doing so.

I thank Members for their co-operation and look forward to bringing the Bill through the Dáil.

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