Peter Burke

The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment is consulting on the measures to be included in the Consumer Protection, Competition and Enforcement Bill 2026.

New powers for the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) to impose proportionate fines for serious breaches of consumer law, reducing reliance on lengthy court processes, are among the key measures under consideration.

Another is granting the CCPC authority to screen public procurement data for patterns of collusion, as recommended by the Hamilton review in 2020.

Proposed updates to the Consumer Rights Act 2022 would clarify remedies for prohibited practices, including clearer rules on price reductions and contract cancellations.

Enterprise, tourism and employment minister Peter Burke said: “I welcome this consultation as an important step in strengthening our fair, competitive environment where businesses can thrive and consumers are protected.

“Clear, proportionate rules and effective enforcement benefit everyone, and I encourage both industry and consumer voices to engage so we can shape legislation that supports growth and trust in our markets.”

Niamh Smyth, minister of state for trade promotion, AI and digital transformation, added: “Consumers are the cornerstone of a healthy economy.

“We want to make sure our laws keep pace with evolving markets, digital products and EU standards so that businesses and consumers alike can thrive.

“This consultation is an opportunity for everyone to help shape legislation that promotes fairness and transparency while supporting competitiveness.”

Submissions are invited from individuals, businesses and consumer groups up to 27 February 2026. Responses should be emailed to conspol@enterprise.gov.ie including a name, organisation (if applicable) and contact details.

For more information and to access the consultation, click here.