Tour operator facing highest penalty after abandoning minors overseas
In August 2024, the Portuguese Tourism Authority (PTAC) discovered a significant breach of travel regulations by Fisom Ltd, a surf camp organizer, during an operation in Portugal.
Fisom Ltd, which had been operating without proper registration, failed to cover participants' accommodation, food, water, and return to Latvia, as required by law. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to the regulations that govern travel service providers in Portugal, particularly tour operators.
Under Portuguese legislation, tour operators are obliged to be formally registered, hold the necessary licenses, provide clear and accurate information, honour contractual obligations, and comply with consumer protection laws. Fisom Ltd's actions violated several of these regulations.
Moreover, the company's failure to comply with the prohibition of unfair commercial practices, protection of children's rights, labour law, and tax registration regulations was also evident. Fisom Ltd did not have appropriate insurance coverage, another crucial requirement for travel service providers.
In response to the incident, PTAC applied the maximum possible fine, equating to 4% of the company's turnover for 2024, amounting to €8,048. PTAC encourages parents to verify if their chosen camp and tour organizers are registered in the database of travel service providers, check if there is sufficient authorization for the camp or tour, and inquire about emergency procedures and options that are in place for their children.
It is essential for travel service providers in Portugal to operate effectively, ethically, and with due regard to consumer protection, labour standards, and taxation. For specific legal or operational guidance, consulting Portuguese legal experts or official regulatory bodies is recommended.
In a positive development, PTAC, in cooperation with the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized the repatriation of 147 travellers from Spain and France on two repatriation flights. This incident serves as a reminder of the vital role PTAC plays in protecting travellers and ensuring compliance with travel regulations in Portugal.
- The breach of travel regulations by Fisom Ltd, a surf camp organizer, has underscored the importance of media outlets reporting general-news stories about the need for youth tourism operators in Portugal to adhere to regulations, including proper registration, adherence to contractual obligations, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage.
- According to crime-and-justice reports, Fisom Ltd's actions violating numerous regulations, such as unfair commercial practices, protection of children's rights, labour law, and tax registration, can lead to severe penalties and tarnish a company's reputation in the travel and lifestyle industry.
- PTAC's response to Fisom Ltd's actions, including applying the maximum fine and encouraging parents to verify a camp or tour organizer's registration, raises awareness about the importance of transparency and consumer protection in travel.
- The repatriation of 147 travellers by PTAC in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the travel sector complies with regulations, ensuring a safer environment for tourists and contributing to the growth of the Portuguese tourism industry.
- The lsm (lifestyle and society) section of various media outlets should highlight the pressing need for travel providers to respect labour standards, child protection laws, and taxation regulations, prioritizing the public interest and fostering a culture of ethical tourism in Portugal.
