Loophole blocks holiday complaints

Carl O'Brien, Political Correspondent MANY holidaymakers who end up with poor package trips are unable to get compensation from their travel agent because of a legal loophole.

Under package-holiday legislation travel agents who flout the law can only be prosecuted within 12 months of the offence but many are finding the time limit is too short.

Director of Consumer Affairs Carmel Foley said yesterday it was becoming a bigger issue because many people were booking their holidays early to avail of special deals.