CCPC and Consumer Enforcement
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Irish Acts of the Oireachtas, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
Irish National Law
What is this right?
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is Ireland's statutory body for consumer protection and competition enforcement. It can:
- Investigate complaints about misleading practices, unfair commercial practices, and pyramid schemes.
- Take enforcement action — including compliance notices, prohibition orders, and criminal prosecutions.
- Provide consumer information and education through ccpc.ie.
- Carry out market surveillance and product safety checks.
The Consumer Protection Act 2007 prohibits unfair, misleading, and aggressive commercial practices — including false advertising, bait-and-switch tactics, and high-pressure selling.
When does it apply?
- A trader has engaged in unfair, misleading, or aggressive commercial practices.
- A product you bought is unsafe.
- You need consumer advice but don't know your rights.
- The CCPC does not resolve individual complaints — for that, use the Small Claims Procedure or the courts. But it does use complaint data to identify patterns and take systemic action.
What should you do?
- Visit ccpc.ie for consumer information, comparison tools (insurance, energy, broadband), and template complaint letters.
- Report a problem to the CCPC if you believe a trader is breaking consumer law — use the online form at ccpc.ie.
- Call the CCPC helpline at 01 402 5555 for advice.
- If you see a product recall, check the CCPC website for instructions on what to do.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't expect the CCPC to pursue your individual case — it focuses on systemic issues and enforcement. For your personal claim, use the courts.
- Don't ignore product safety recalls — follow the instructions on ccpc.ie.
- Don't fall for "too good to be true" offers — the CCPC publishes warnings about common scams.
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