A number of important aspects must be balanced. The main purpose of the Bill is to transpose an EU Directive into Irish law, which should have been done two years ago, as pointed out by a number of Deputies on Second Stage. It is important to give consumers the protection afforded by the Bill as soon as possible.
On the other hand, I accept that the travel trade must be given adequate time to prepare matters such as the accuracy of brochures, etc. The travel trade knows this Bill is being passed and is making the necessary preparations. It is important that it should have adequate time to prepare for the new requirements under the legislation. I do not accept the necessity for the amendment. This issue does not require an amendment to the Bill as it refers to the timing of the commencement order bringing the Bill into operation. Section 1 of the Bill is in accordance with standard practice whereby the Minister makes an order to bring the section into operation.
This amendment is linked with amendment No. 9 which refers to section 10. I will say more on the matter at that stage. All that is required is an order and the Minister has discretion in that regard. I guarantee the House that, in consultation with the travel trade, I will ensure it is given adequate time and I will balance that with the need to implement the legislation.
