asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of repeated complaints regarding a company (details supplied); if he will have such complaints investigated; the appropriate action he can take to curb the activities of this company; if there is any evidence on which Garda inquiries could be based; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Company Complaint.
272.
My Department have received one complaint regarding the activities of the company mentioned. This has been the subject of protracted correspondence, but I understand that the matter has now been resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant.
If the Deputy has information about any other complaints against the firm I would be glad to have them considered.
He may be assured that if there is any evidence to warrant Garda inquiries, appropriate action will be taken.
I understand that the Director of Consumer Affairs has also received complaints about this firm and is now dealing with them. I would like to stress however that, in this as in many other commercial transactions, it is a matter primarily for the consumer himself to act with sufficient prudence to ensure that his own interests are adequately protected and to sign contracts only with people who have the competence to carry out their obligations properly. The need for this caution will remain even after the coming into operation of the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Bill now awaiting enactment, and despite any initiatives which may be taken by the Director of Consumer Affairs.