State's consumer watchdog tackles businesses

Over 60 enforcement actions were taken against traders by the State’s consumer watchdog last year.

Some 29 compliance notices were issued by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to traders who were found to be in breach of consumer protection legislation.

A total of 33 fines were issued to traders found to be in breach of price display legislation, following 111 inspections nationwide. The penalty in each case was €300, to be paid within 28 days.

A total of €5,000 in fines and compensation orders were imposed on one individual, Brian Fassnidge, following his conviction in 2014 for supplying a dangerous vehicle and providing misleading information to consumers who were buying cars. This was in addition to €10,000 in costs and €17,200 in repayments to affected consumers as ordered by the court. The total costs amounted to €32,200.

The chairwoman of the CCPC, Isolde Goggin, said the watchdog’s main focus is to quickly and efficiently put a stop to practices which cause harm and financial detriment to consumers.

“Enforcement of consumer protection law is a core activity for the CCPC and we are committed to using our powers effectively and extensively,” she said.

“We encourage businesses to understand their obligations and to take a proactive approach to compliance. If businesses breach legislation, they should be aware that we will take whatever enforcement action is necessary.”

The CCPC is responsible for enforcing consumer protection legislation, mainly arising from EU directives which are designed to protect consumers.