Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Nov 1991

Vol. 412 No. 7

Written Answers. - Casual Trading.

Michael Bell

Question:

53 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties created for local authorities, in particular the local authority for the Borough of Drogheda, under the Casual Trading Act where traders who claim to be selling home grown vegetables are excluded from the Act and this is giving rise to serious disruption of traffic and other abuses on the main shopping streets; if he will give details of plans to amend the Casual Trading Act, and regulations made thereunder, which will give greater control of (1) all trading and (2) designation and the issuing of permits and licences by the local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Industry and Commerce (Mr. O'Malley)

A comprehensive review of the Casual Trading Act, 1980 is nearing completion by my Department following consultations with all local authorities, relevant Government Departments and other interested bodies. From the many submissions received, including one from the Corporation of Drogheda, it is clear that there are particular difficulties in effective enforcement of the Act by local authorities with regard to the selling of home grown produce which is currently exempted from the definition of casual trading.

Arising out of the review I expect to be in a position shortly to consider whether any amendment to the Act is necessary, and I will be looking closely at the question of whether this exemption should be maintained.