Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2010
330 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the complaints that have been received by the Commission for Aviation Regulation from consumers following the recent volcanic ash disruption; the number of these complaints that have been resolved to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29486/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission for Aviation Regulation is the competent authority in the State in respect of EU Regulation 261/2004. I have no function in the matter.
331 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the recent developments in the Netherlands where consumer rights information desks in airports have been opened and an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for air passengers to assist them to pursue redress against airlines has been established; if he will support such measures here in recognition of the fact that consumers have rights but in many cases find it very difficult to vindicate their rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29487/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the initiative in the Netherlands that the Deputy refers to. I have no plans to introduce such measures here. As the Deputy will be aware, comprehensive protections and rights for passengers when travelling by air are already enshrined in European law. Regulation (EC) 261/2004 established common European rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of cancellation or long delay of flights or in the event of being denied boarding. The Regulation has direct application in Member States and the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) has been designated as the National Enforcement Body for the Regulation in the State.
Last week, the European Commission launched a European-wide publicity campaign aimed at raising public awareness of passenger's rights and entitlements under Regulation (EC) 261/2004. As part of the campaign, posters will be displayed in airports in all Member States and passengers will also be able to consult a new dedicated website, the address of which is http://ec.europa.eu/passenger-rights.
