Eric J. Byrne
Question:25 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline his plans to improve the standard of consumer protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Consumer Protection.
Two measures which will add significantly to consumer protection when implemented have recently come before the House. These are the Competition Bill, 1991 which has now passed all Stages here, and is currently with the Seanad, and the Liability for Defective Products Bill, 1991, the second Stage of which was completed on 6 June.
The Minister for Justice recently announced a new small claims procedure as promised in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress. It will operate initially on a pilot basis in the Dublin metropolitan district, in Cork and two other District Court venues.
I also propose to introduce consumer protection measures in the areas of consumer credit, food labelling and safety with regard to imitation products.
In addition, there are proposals being discussed at EC level as regards unfair terms in consumer contracts, product safety and the liability of suppliers of services. These have as their objective the strengthening of consumer protection legislation in the European Community and will on their adoption benefit Irish consumers significantly.