We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Bank-card transaction fees

Summary

Senator Noone welcomes a proposed European cap on payment-card fees, saying it could reduce barriers for consumers and businesses; brief interjections concern Senator Naughton’s welcome.

I congratulate and welcome Senator Naughton to the House and wish her well. This is an exciting day for her on a personal level. I join with those colleagues who have welcomed the fact that she is another young, west of Ireland woman in the House.

A proposal to be tabled by the European Commission on Wednesday would see a Europe-wide cap imposed on banking card fees of between 0.2% and 0.3% of a given transaction. This proposal has been welcomed by consumers and businesses alike, many of whom believe that fees can often be a barrier to trade. The proposal, which would update the payment services directive, is necessary following a judgment by the European Court of Justice that imposes limits on the fees that can be applied by Visa Europe. As such, the proposal is a practical review and will allow solutions to be reached. I am glad that Europe is once again proposing smart regulations that will make consumers' lives better.

Comment on this

I wish to issue an unqualified and unreserved congratulations to Senator Naughton. I have heard much about her. She is thought of highly in local authority circles, particularly in Galway. It is a proud day for her and her family. There should be no more about it, as there are political considerations in everything that happens here. I am delighted to find out that she is a trained soprano. For a long time, I have been searching for someone to do a duet with the Leader. As we all know, he is an accomplished baritone.

Comment on this
David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

Name that tune.

Comment on this

It is an offer that she cannot refuse.

Comment on this