The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has recently executed a series of unannounced inspections targeting multiple retail businesses throughout Ireland. This initiative is part of the CCPC's ongoing efforts to monitor compliance with consumer protection laws and ensure fair trading practices.

In total, 55 inspections were conducted across five counties, including significant activity in Co. Dublin, where 22 inspections took place in areas such as Swords, Dundrum, and Tallaght. Other counties involved included Kildare, Offaly, Donegal, and Sligo, with a focus on various retail sectors including clothing, beauty, furniture, groceries, and hospitality.

During these inspections, CCPC officers identified several breaches of consumer protection law, particularly concerning inadequate or inaccurate price displays on items for sale. Inspections also extended to the retail motor fuel sector, where violations of the price display rules were noted at leading service stations.

Patrick Kenny, a member of the CCPC, emphasized the importance of transparent pricing for consumers, stating that enforcement officers utilize national helpline data to identify patterns of consumer harm. The CCPC is empowered to issue fines and pursue prosecutions against traders found violating the law.

Traders were selected for inspection based on their location, sector, and consumer complaints received through the CCPC helpline. The CCPC reported a significant increase in consumer contacts, with over 44,000 inquiries last year, highlighting the importance of consumer feedback in identifying at-risk sectors.

The CCPC is advocating for more substantial penalties for companies that breach consumer protection laws, citing recent cases where companies were ordered to donate to charity for violations. The commission is calling for legislative changes to enable the imposition of larger fines based on a business's turnover for serious offenses.

Consumers who suspect violations of consumer law are encouraged to report their concerns to the CCPC through their National Consumer Helpline or via email.