asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he is aware of the considerable difficulties which have arisen regarding roadside trading; and the steps, if any, being taken to control this trading in an equitable manner.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Roadside Trading.
25.
I am aware of the problems which have arisen regarding the types of trading mentioned by the Deputy. The Government have already decided to introduce legislation to regulate all forms of casual trading. However, the drafting of the necessary measures has, for reasons which I am sure the Deputy can appreciate, proved to be particularly difficult and is taking longer to complete than had been anticipated. In an effort to overcome these difficulties, work is now proceeding on the basis that there will be two Bills. The first of these will deal with occasional trading from temporary retail outlets, and the second with roadside trading.
Because of the difficulties that have been encountered, I am somewhat hesitant to make any firm prediction as to when the first of these measures—that on occasional trading—will be circulated. It is my aim to have this done as early as possible in the present session and I can assure the Deputy that the urgency of the matter is recognised fully.