The Director of Consumer Affairs Carmel Foley today warned Irish holidaymakers to be aware of their rights when taking package holidays.
She recommended that problems be brought to the attention of holiday representatives immediately and said that evidence should be collected to support any complaint. This evidence could then be submitted to the tour operator within 28 days, she said.
She also offered some relief for those who feel that their holiday experience doesn't quite measure up to the fantasy painted in the brochure.
"If there is a discrepancy between what was described in the holiday brochure and the reality, the matter can be referred to the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs," she said.
Following her appearance before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport, Ms Foley said that it was important that consumers know their rights and also know how to pursue them.
"If necessary, they can enforce them through the Small Claims Court," she added.