IrelandWhat is the CCPC and what powers does it have?
The CCPC (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) is Ireland’s independent statutory body responsible for enforcing competition and consumer protection law. It was established under the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 and has powers to investigate, issue directions, impose sanctions, and take legal action.
What the Law Says
The CCPC’s consumer protection functions are grounded in the Consumer Protection Act 2007, which empowers it to enforce consumer rights and tackle unfair commercial practices.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is Ireland’s single, independent statutory authority responsible for both competition law enforcement and consumer protection. It was created on 31 October 2014 by merging the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency under the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014.
While the 2014 Act established the CCPC as an institution, its core consumer enforcement powers derive from the Consumer Protection Act 2007 — particularly Section 8, which sets out the Commission’s general functions relating to consumer protection.
These include monitoring compliance with consumer laws, investigating complaints, conducting inspections, issuing compliance notices, accepting undertakings, and initiating legal proceedings against traders who breach consumer protection rules.
Statutory TextThe Commission shall have the function of promoting and safeguarding the interests of consumers in relation to the supply of goods and services.
— Consumer Protection Act 2007, s. 8 — Functions of the Commission
What to Do
Report a suspected consumer law breach to the CCPC via ccpc.ie or 01 402 5555
Keep receipts, contracts, and correspondence as evidence
Cooperate with CCPC inspectors if they visit your business
Respond promptly to compliance notices or information requests
Seek legal advice before signing undertakings or admitting liability
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.