Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Consumer Protection.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

186 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the need to amend legislation to protect purchasers of holiday products and timeshare products; and her views on the matter. [1482/03]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

I have no plans to introduce further legislation in this area. The current law is the European Communities (Contracts for timesharing of immovable property – protection of consumers) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 204 of 1997) and European Communities (Contracts for timesharing of immovable property – protection of consumers) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I. No. 144 of 2000), which both implement the European timeshare Directive, 97/47/EC.

I am aware that timeshare legislation does not extend to membership of holiday clubs, a relatively new phenomenon whereby subscribers can avail of cut-price luxury holidays to popular holiday destinations each year. In this regard, the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs advises consumers to carefully consider the full implications of the contract being offered in connection with these holidays and to seek legal advice as to the terms and conditions of the contract.

I understand that the EU Commission intends to review the timeshare Directive and has given this pledge in its Consumer Policy Strategy Statement 2002-06. We will, of course, partake in any discussions that take place and ensure that the position of Irish consumers is fully protected. To amend the law unilaterally would only protect consumers who purchase holiday or timeshare products in Ireland. Therefore, the Deputy will appreciate the need to tackle this issue at the European Union level so that rules will be introduced that govern all member states. This will ensure that Irish consumers will be protected in this area when they travel within the European Union.