Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has concerns that persons with a serious criminal record are currently performing debt collection functions on behalf of persons or firms; his plans to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44780/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I would have concern that any person with a serious criminal record should operate in any area of the financial services industry. However, responsibility for the licensing and regulation, including any fit and proper tests that might apply, of financial activities including debt collection does not come within the area of responsibility of my Department.

The Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997 provides protection to consumers against inappropriate methods of collecting repayments. Under section 11 of that Act, it is an offence to demand payment of a debt in a way designed to alarm, distress or humiliate. Any person who is threatened or intimidated by debt collectors should report the incident to the Gardaí who will take appropriate action.