Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
245. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps that are being taken to address/control overpricing in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53593/26]
View answerIn Ireland, traders are generally free to set and adjust prices for goods and services provided they do so independently and in compliance with competition and consumer protection legislation. Consumer protection law requires clear, upfront disclosure of total prices, including any charges, so that consumers can make informed decisions. Under the Consumer Protection Act 2007, traders must provide clear and accurate price information. It is an offence for a trader to give a false or misleading indication of a price or to charge a higher price than that displayed.
Through its enforcement actions and public guidance, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) ensures that businesses compete fairly, consumers are treated honestly, and the market remains open and dynamic. The CCPC continues to promote and monitor compliance across all sectors, and where appropriate, investigates suspected breaches and takes enforcement action when necessary.
While several countries have considered introducing price controls, in most cases these plans have been dropped because of the potential for unintended negative consequences. The imposition of price caps could negatively impact competition and unintentionally increase prices which would present a risk to both the Irish economy and consumers.
The Programme for Government commits to strengthening consumer-protection legislation, enhancing the powers of the CCPC and promoting price transparency through enhancing the powers of the CCPC and promoting price transparency for consumers.
My Department maintains ongoing engagement with the CCPC, which forms part of broader efforts to ensure fair competition and robust consumer protection. The CCPC, as the independent statutory body, enforces these rules and can take action where it finds non-compliance.
