Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 256: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on whether the provision of a 4% bond under the travel trade regulation is unnecessary; if the bond should be fixed at 2% and applied to travel agents renewing their licences as of 1 May 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7569/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Last year I asked the Commission for Aviation Regulation to undertake a comprehensive review of the travel trade legislation including the level of bonding imposed on travel agents and tour operators. The purpose of the review was to assess the operation of the current regulatory arrangements and to recommend any reforms that may be warranted. Following an extensive consultation process, the Commission submitted its report to me on 30 December 2008, which I have published on my Department's website.

I am currently examining the bonding arrangements, the Commission's recommendations in this regard, and all of the Commission's findings and recommendations. I am also consulting with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment in the context of consumer protection generally.