Online boost for EU consumers and businesses

IRISH consumers and businesses will be able to avail of fresh business opportunities after the European Parliament rubber-stamped regulations covering online shopping.

The EU’s Consumer Rights Directive was passed yesterday, meaning people buying items such as flights online should no longer be charged credit card fees and will enjoy new rights on unwanted or damaged returns.

Vendors will also now be responsible for any damage to goods during transit, while online opt-in boxes for buying goods and services cannot be pre-ticked.