asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the reasons for his continued refusal to take steps to control the roadside sale of goods by caravan traders, in view of the unfair competition which they constitute to established traders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Roadside Traders.
34.
I do not regard roadside trading as inherently wrong. I consider that the problem posed by this type of trading arises largely because of the extent to which stolen and smuggled goods have figured in it recently. If these elements were eliminated, it is unlikely that roadside traders would present a serious problem.
I do not consider that the matter is one in which I can take direct action. I feel that the problem can most effectively be dealt with by full enforcement of the present law with the interests of traders in mind and I have asked the appropriate authorities to continue to do everything in their power to this end.
Can the Minister state the value of the goods that have been sold in the last year?
I am sorry, I do not know.
Would the Minister be surprised to hear that a figure of £1½ million in this connection has been mentioned? Would the Minister not agree that effective steps should be taken immediately to end this system of unfair trading, particularly with regard to goods of doubtful origin and ownership?
I accept the point made at the end of the Deputy's supplementary question with regard to goods of doubtful origin. However, I must point out that many roadside traders deal at fairs and operate under hawkers' licences and are legitimate traders. The Minister stated previously that this problem can be dealt with most effectively by full enforcement of the present law and I agree with him.
Is the Minister aware that goods have been bought from these traders at half price?
I am aware. I know that the Minister intends that the present law be fully enforced.
The Minister referred to traders and hawkers at fairs. Is the Minister aware that these people must be licensed and are under the scrutiny of the Garda at all times to ensure that the goods they are selling match the descriptions that are given?
Yes.
Did the Minister state he was satisfied with the present situation where goods valued at £1½ million were sold? The goods in question were mostly luxury items but the traders do not pay VAT, rents, overheads or the cost of hawkers' licences. Does the Minister consider that this is fair trading?
No. If the goods are stolen a stop should be put to this practice. However, under the law the Garda have sufficient powers.
Has the Minister received many complaints from small traders who sell the same kinds of goods as roadside traders? These people have suffered considerable hardship and loss of business.
I understand a number of traders' associations have complained to the Minister and, as a result, he has asked the appropriate authorities to continue to do everything in their power to bring it to an end.
If there are powers to deal with this matter, why are they not being enforced?
They are being enforced.
If that is so, how can we hear today that goods to the value of £1½ million were sold?
I would point out I did not introduce that figure.
The Minister must be aware of the extent of this trading, especially on main roads——
Deputy Brugha mentioned the figure of £1½ million. I do not know if it is right or wrong.
We cannot debate this question all afternoon. I am calling Deputy Fitzgerald for a final supplementary.
Is the Minister aware of Press statements this week which stated some firms were worried about loss of employment because of articles sold by certain traders? Has the Minister any statement on that matter?
I have answered this question fully. The Minister has instructed the appropriate authorities to continue to do everything to bring this to an end. I do not think he can do any more.