Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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55. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties customers are experiencing cashing refund cheques from an aviation company (details supplied); the recourse available to these customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42504/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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This issue has only very recently come to attention, and it has been confirmed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) - which is our national enforcement body under Regulation (EC) 261 of 2004 - that a number of consumers have been effected. Under the Regulation, which provides for the payment of refunds to air passengers in certain circumstances, payments can be made in the form of cash, electronic bank transfer, bank order, bank cheque or - with the signed agreement of the passenger - travel vouchers and/or other services.  If an airline refunds by one of the methods listed it has legally discharged its duty under the Regulation. 

The CAR has advised that any passengers who are experiencing difficulties cashing these cheques to bring the issue to the airline's attention in the first instance. CAR has advised that it understands that  airlines are cooperating in providing an alternative payment method where possible.  It is a matter, nonetheless, that I will ensure is followed up on should it persist.