andMr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will have the hours of trading as laid down under the 1947 trading hours order for Dundalk town fully implemented.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dundalk Hours of Trading.
6.
I am assured that the gardaí are giving as much attention as they can to the Shops (Hours of Trading) Act, and that detections are continuing to be made and prosecutions are continuing to be brought by the gardaí in respect of the hours of trading order in question.
I may mention that I have asked the National Consumer Advisory Council to consider the relevant legislation and to make any recommendations in regard to amendment they may consider suitable. I hope to hear from the council fairly soon and I will then examine the matter further.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the trading hours were fully observed by all the traders in Dundalk from 1947 until about 18 months ago when a large supermarket complex moved in? They are deliberately flouting the law in relation to trading hours every Thursday and Friday. They have defied the law, been taken to court and fined but they reopened the following night. What does the Parliamentary Secretary propose to do about this?
I am aware that in a recent period a significant number of breaches of this order occurred but I am also aware, and the Garda confirm, that detections of these offences are continuing and prosecutions being brought. Fines have been imposed and I gather that such fines have been registered as recently as 7th April last. Some further cases have been adjourned until 9th June and there were two detections made last week, 13th May, and I presume they will be the subject of proceedings.
Is it the intention of the Department to amend the law, if necessary, to make those people comply with the regulations?
I have asked the National Consumer Advisory Council to have a look at this legislation and, on receipt of their findings, I will consider whether or not amendments are desirable.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the business of the small traders in Dundalk and Drogheda is seriously affected by the late opening of the large stores?
I am aware that traders have expressed concern in this matter but, as I indicated, the gardaí are taking as many steps as are reasonably open to them to have these orders enforced.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree that the deliberate flouting of any law brings all law into disrepute and is he concerned about this?
Gardaí are enforcing this legislation and have brought proceedings before the courts. In a number of cases the courts have imposed fines. It is the intention of the Garda to continue to bring prosecutions. No doubt the courts will take due account of any repeat of offences which may occur.