The Commission for Aviation Regulation has today announced the completion of the spring 2012 licensing round for travel trade renewals. In total, 101 out of 102 applicants have had their travel agents’ licences renewed with effect from 1st May 2012. Seven new applicants were also granted licences making a grand total of 108 licences in this round. One travel agent has not had their licence renewed: Apex Travel Consultancy Ltd trading as GPS Travel based at 26 Eustace Street (off Dame Street), Dublin 2. (NB: See update below.)
Alan Richardson, Manager of Licensing for CAR, said: “We are pleased that almost 98% of those seeking to renew their licence completed all of the requirements by the May deadline. One travel agent has failed to meet these requirements, and must cease taking new bookings immediately. We are advising intending passengers not to book with unlicensed traders as any such bookings will not be protected by the bonding scheme operated by the CAR. Existing customers of these agents may engage directly with them on their existing arrangements.”
Update:
Apex Travel Consultancy trading as GPS Travel was subsequently granted its licence on Friday 4th May with an expiry date of 30th April 2013. Gordon Pullen told Irish Travel Trade News on 9th May: “The delay in getting the licence issued was due to administrative problems resulting in a deadline being missed.”
I am delighted to see that 98% of applicants have secured their licences for the coming year. In the continued struggle to survive, I am sure it cannot have been an easy process for many.
I wish all of my friends continued success and hope the future will hold more than just survival!