Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 566: To ask the Minister for Transport if there has been consultation between himself and the European Commission in relation to the planned stakeholder consultation to be held in October 2009 with regard to the overhaul of consumer rights for holiday makers; his views on the planned overhaul; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31244/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The European Commissioner for Consumer Affairs recently announced that the European Commission is to seek to overhaul existing consumer protection legislation with a view to providing additional safeguards for people who book flights and accommodation over the Internet.

Statutory responsibility for consumer protection in the travel industry in Ireland rests with the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR). A recent review of the travel trade regulations by CAR highlighted the need for reform of EU legislation in this area, as the existing regime no longer reflects the realities of the market place where an increasing number of holidaymakers are booking through online service providers who are not currently subject to the licensing and bonding requirements imposed on Travel Agents and Tour Operators. In that context, my Department and CAR will engage in the stakeholder consultation process when it is launched. My colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment would also have an interest in terms of consumer protection policies generally.