Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 53: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on introducing legislation to regulate debt collection here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7695/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The question of legislation to regulate debt collection as a financial activity is not one that comes within the area of responsibility of my Department. However, I am aware of recent media reports which alleged intimidation of persons owing money in various circumstances by "criminal" debt collectors. The alleged intimidation and threatening behaviour of debt collectors, no more than such behaviour by any person, would appear to come within the scope of the provisions of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. Any person who is threatened or intimidated by debt collectors should report the incident to the Gardaí who will take appropriate action.