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Consumer Rights

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020

Tuesday, 23 June 2020

Ceisteanna (27)

James Browne

Ceist:

27. Deputy James Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if consumers will be refunded for flights booked for July 2020 while foreign travel is advised against. [12144/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department publishes advice for outward travel in respect of over 200 countries. The advice provides an objective assessment of the risks individuals could face if travelling overseas, with a view to helping them to make informed decisions for themselves. It is based on consultation with our Embassies and Consulates on the ground, the relevant local authorities in each country and our international partners, together with our domestic partners where appropriate. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the priority of protecting public health, we have worked particularly closely with the Department of Health and the HSE.

Any issues relating to terms and conditions of flights, holiday packages, insurance policies or refunds should be pursued directly with the airline, tour operator or insurer. These are not a matter for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

On March 17, my Department issued a general advisory for the public to avoid all non-essential travel overseas, and the security status rating for each country was amended to reflect this advice. This advice initially applied until March 29, and was subsequently extended until further notice. As the Deputy will be aware, the Government continues to advise against all non-essential travel overseas.

Our Travel Advice remains under regular review. Any change will be notified through my Department's website at www.dfa.ie/travel and through our TravelWise app.

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