Weak regulation of gift vouchers in focus for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Committee

The meeting at 4 p.m. in Committee Room 4 can be viewed live here and on Android and Apple devices using the Houses of the Oireachtas app.

The Private Member’s Bill, sponsored by Niall Collins TD, proposes to enhance consumers’ rights and protections on the sale of gift vouchers – including cards, online credit and written certificates – and increase transparency of their terms and conditions.

Deputy Collins and officials from the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation are scheduled to address the Committee.

“The sale of gift vouchers remains ill regulated in Ireland and all parties agree this situation needs to change,” said Committee Chair Mary Butler TD. “Consumers need to know that when they purchase a voucher from a retailer whether on line or in person, that voucher’s value, restrictions on use and expiry date are unambiguously stated up front.”

Deputy Butler added: “Committee members may be particularly interested to discuss the Bill’s proposal to require all gift vouchers sold in Ireland to remain valid for a minimum of five years.”