In 2024, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) reported that 44,247 consumers contacted its National Consumer Helpline, reflecting a significant rise of over 5,000 calls compared to 2023. This increase of 13% highlights a growing awareness among consumers regarding their rights.

The CCPC's 2024 Helpline Report, released ahead of World Consumer Rights Day, details the sectors and issues that prompted consumers to seek assistance. The most frequent inquiries were related to vehicles and transport, with nearly 5,500 calls concerning car purchases. Other notable sectors included telecommunications and home building and improvements.

Consumers reported an average expenditure of €6,013 on the products or services they sought help with, indicating that the issues faced were not trivial. A significant number of calls, approximately 9,500, were related to faulty goods or services, while over 2,000 inquiries were about contract cancellations.

CCPC spokeswoman Grainne Griffin expressed satisfaction with the increasing number of consumers seeking guidance on their rights. She emphasized the importance of addressing the high costs associated with second-hand cars and home improvements, noting that the small claims court's limit of €2,000 is inadequate for many consumers facing larger financial issues.

Griffin also highlighted the need for an online car history portal to assist buyers in avoiding unsafe vehicles. The CCPC helpline operates Monday to Friday, providing consumers with essential information on their rights and personal finance.