New guidelines launched for businesses in Ireland

McGrath believes that new guidelines will aid businesses to find a better understanding of consumer rights

Michael McGrath, European commissioner for democracy, justice, the rule of law, and consumer protection, was in Dublin for the launch of a new set of guidelines for businesses in Ireland.

He visited the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) as the new guidelines point to what traders must do to uphold consumer rights.

This follows the introduction of the new rules in the Consumer Rights Act of 2022.

Guidelines for traders

Alongside meeting with McGrath, McHugh spoke on the launch of the guidelines set out for traders when selling goods and services.

He said: “Our enforcement teams inspect and investigate traders throughout the year, but protecting consumers also means supporting businesses to understand and uphold the law”.

The CCPC chair believes that these guidelines will “help” traders in all sectors in “understanding” their obligations.

In September 2023, CCPC welcomed McHugh as its new chair after serving as a member since 2017.

The commissioner, speaking at the launch said: “Consumer policy can make a tangible difference in people’s lives and help ensure a level playing field for businesses”.

He spoke on the importance of businesses understanding their obligations and believes these guidelines will help “promote” compliance.

McGrath, who spoke at the government buildings alongside Michéal Martin, Taoiseach, recently spoke of the European Union (EU) being ready to negotiate following the tariffs imposed by the United States (US).