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24/02/10
Threats of passport service disruption a major concern – ITAA

Speaking upon his election at the ITAA’s AGM at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport today, Mr Dawson said: “The noises coming from public service unions in recent weeks make us worried.   This affects both business travellers and holiday makers.   Already the level of service at the passport office has diminished, as it is no longer open at lunchtime thanks to a work to rule.   We fear the relevant union, the CPSU, may encourage their staff to increase levels of disruption in coming weeks.   Also, in a double whammy, we note that Gardaí will be considering a ban on signing passport application forms when the GRA conference is held in April.    

“Travel agents are advising their clients to check their passport expiry date now.  You should get your new photos and an application form signed by your local Garda sooner rather than later.   Also, as every year, we recommend people to post or drop in passport renewal applications early.  Don’t risk the mid summer bottleneck.  This year with the risk of industrial action looming that advice is more important than ever.”

Mr Dawson committed himself to consistently standing up for the travelling consumer during his inaugural address.   “We get it in the neck from customers when any travel supplier let’s them down.  That’s fair enough – we book it for them so we have to stand over it.  However, I promise that during my term I will get customers complaints back to airlines, ferries, tour operators, hoteliers and public bodies when its they let us down.  I will not mince my words and I’ll go public on bad service when its needed.   Travel Agents are the consumers’ watchdog.  As the human face of the travel experience they have to be – after all websites aren’t great listeners.    

Ends

For further information   Simon Nugent Chief Executive, ITAA 086 2459679


Note for Editors

Pat Dawson, Managing Director of Dawson Travel in Cork takes up office today as the 23rd President of the ITAA – the national representative body of travel agents and tour operators.    
 

       

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