As you get into the Christmas swing this year, keep in mind that new Government protections are set to be announced on how gift cards will operate.
The new measures will improve rights for consumers who buy or receive gift vouchers, all gift vouchers will have a minimum five year expiry period.
Reimburse balance
In relation to the provision which sets out that a consumer no longer has to use the voucher in one transaction, the retailer will now be required to reimburse any remaining balance of more than one euro by way of cash, electronic transfer or another voucher, where the voucher cannot be used more than once.
Airlines impacted
Airlines will no longer be able to refuse a voucher if the name on it is different to the name on the passport of the person travelling.
Some may be disappointed
However, some consumers may be disappointed that the practice whereby the balance of an unused voucher reduces year by year is not being outlawed. The minister said she wanted to introduce the measure, but the Attorney General advised against it.
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