Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 586: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views in relation to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14271/07]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am aware of the concerns raised in the correspondence referred to in the Deputy's question regarding particular provisions of the recently enacted Consumer Protection Act 2007. Essentially the correspondent is concerned that the provisions in the Act prohibiting traders from imposing additional charges on customers by reason of the customer choosing to make payment for goods or services by one specified method over another will have a severe impact on the operation of his business.

I would advise the Deputy that the said provisions merely prohibit differential pricing by traders based on method of payment. In this regard, it is important to point out that the provisions do not prevent traders from seeking to recover costs incurred from accepting payment by particular methods.

Whilst I am aware and mindful of the concerns expressed in the aforementioned correspondence, I am satisfied that the provisions in the Act merely reflect common practice as the vast majority of traders do not impose surcharges for accepting payment by particular methods and do not differentiate in price as between payment methods. I would emphasise that the protection of consumers was the sole aim in introducing these provisions and I am confident that their impact will be in line with that aim.