Eoin Barry, Labour Party Area Representative for the Graiguecullen Portarlington Municipal District has called for a ban on scam phone call.
He insists that phone operators must do more to protect their customers.
He said: “I am speaking with Laois residents about the ongoing problem with scam phone calls on a regular basis,” said Mr Barry.
“Some people have reported to me that they are receiving multiple phone calls a day, often from different numbers. Many of these phone calls are quiet sophisticated, with the caller attempting to frighten people in order to gain access to their account details.
“Unfortunately many people have been taken advantage of and have lost money as a result.
“Members of the public want to be able to get on with their day to day life in peace without these constant interruptions.”
Mr Barry raised the matter with Labour Communications spokesperson Seán Sherlock TD.
Deputy Sherlock said: “Two years ago I called on the Minister for Justice and the Minister for Communications to take steps to protect vulnerable Members of the public from these scam phone calls which can range from attempting to gain access to a personal computer to perpetrating bank transactions.
Speaking with Eoin on the issues affecting Laois customers of these phone operators, it is quite clear that the victims are vulnerable people who are frightened by the sophistication of the calls and the hours in which they occur – usually late at night or early in the morning.
“ComReg and the Government must take a more proactive role in protecting the public as best they can from these nefarious fraudsters.
“I would encourage anyone who believes a family member or neighbour to be vulnerable to such activity to talk with them on the importance of safety on the phone if you don’t know the person. Genuine representatives will always call back.
“I will continue to work with Eoin on these issues affecting Laois residents.”
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