Labour Transport Spokesperson Tommy Broughan T.D. has welcomed new EU plans to strengthen the protection for tourists and travellers who independently book air tickets, accommodation and car hire.

Deputy Broughan said, "More and more people are using the internet to plan and book their own holiday. The EU Commission has indicated that 46% people in Ireland and 56% across the EU as a whole now arrange their holidays independently rather than booking a package through a travel agent. Unfortunately, travellers who book their holidays this way enjoy less consumer protection and are more at risk when travel companies go bust or if any dispute arises. There is a clear need to address the imbalance in consumer rights in the travel and tourist sector for people who do not go on a traditional package holiday.

"The EU Commission has already launched a crackdown on the misleading advertising and unfair practices on airline ticket selling websites. The announcement of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Meglena Kuneva today that the EU will this year reform and publish its consumer protection rights for travellers and holidaymakers including those who book their own holiday on the internet is therefore greatly welcome.

"Unfortunately, Transport Minister Dempsey and his colleagues have done little or nothing to address the massive gap in consumer protection for Irish passengers and tourists. I believe the Minister should now work with the National Consumer Agency and the Commission on Aviation Regulation and if necessary, to consider legislation specifically to protect air travellers and holidaymakers."