A proposed tough new law to tackle rip-offs alleged against professionals such as estate agents, dentists, solicitors and insurance brokers was unveiled yesterday by Fine Gael spokesman on enterprise, trade and employment Phil Hogan.
The proposed Consumer Protection (Professional Services) Bill 2007, published yesterday by Fine Gael, outlined a series of measures to bring greater transparency in pricing, tougher fines and better representation of consumer interests. The Bill would also extend the remit of the financial services ombudsman to cover professional services.
"We have received many complaints to our ripoff.ie website about many of these vital services. Given that the providers of these services are in a privileged position, armed with an expertise and knowledge of their field that the customer does not have, . . . it is vital that the State steps in to ensure that a fair and equitable situation prevails," said Mr Hogan.
He said the Bill would protect consumers, put professional services on a regulatory footing and punish practitioners who do not uphold their responsibilities.
Mr Hogan said the Bill would impose three key responsibilities on the professions: to employ all reasonable skill, diligence and expertise in the provision of services; to inform the consumer in writing if there may be a conflict of interest; and to charge for services on a transparent basis.
He added that it provided for the payment of compensation if a service was below standard and for penalties to be levied against professionals for certain offences.