CCPC conducts nationwide inspections following surge in consumer complaints
September 27, 2024
Following an increase in calls to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (CCPC) national helpline, several businesses across Ireland have been inspected to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.
Last week, CCPC enforcement officers inspected businesses in 8 counties, covering the hospitality, beauty, motor and retail sectors. A total of 59 inspections were undertaken.
In Cork city and county, the CCPC carried out 15 inspections; while in Kerry, 14 inspections took place in Killarney and Tralee. In Limerick city, 5 inspections were carried out; and in Waterford city and county, a further 9 inspections were completed.
In Galway and Killarney, particular attention was given to businesses catering to the tourism industry. Several breaches of consumer protection law were identified, including items on sale without clear or accurate price displays and misleading information about the origin of certain products.
In Carlow, Dublin and Wexford, inspectors focused mainly on the motor and retail sectors including many of the major car dealerships to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws. During these inspections, breaches included pricing and faulty goods. Of particular concern was the lack of understanding among businesses regarding their legal obligations to consumers when issues arise with a product or service.
The businesses came to the attention of the CCPC following consumer complaints to its helpline. Complaints are a valuable source of information to the CCPC as they help identify sectors where consumers may be at risk.
Commenting on the inspections, CCPC Commission Member, Mr. Pat Kenny, said that the Commission is prepared to take action and prosecute traders and businesses who were found to be in breach of consumer law:
“The CCPC regularly carries out unannounced inspections to make sure businesses are abiding by consumer protection laws. Our enforcement officers use our national helpline data to identify serious breaches and patterns of non-compliance. An informed consumer is an empowered consumer, and knowing your rights can make life easier when things go wrong. Traders who break the law can face fines and prosecution and our interventions are focused on the areas where we can make the greatest impact across a range of sectors.”
The CCPC is committed to using its full range of enforcement powers to protect consumers, which includes imposing fines, issuing compliance notices and pursuing criminal prosecutions. The names of traders who have breached consumer protection law will also be published in the CCPC’s Consumer Protection List.
Consumers who suspect a trader has breached consumer law are encouraged to report their concerns to the CCPC by phoning the helpline on 01-402-5555 or emailing ask@ccpc.ie.
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