Consumer Protection

Consumer Protection

Consumers are protected in three ways:

1. The law: Rules that ensure goods and services are safe, of good quality, and fairly sold.
2. Statutory/Government organisations: e.g. Office of the Ombudsman.
3. Non-statutory organisations: e.g. Consumers' Association of Ireland.

Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980

This act protects consumers when they buy goods or services.

Services must be:

• Provided by someone skilled to do the job.
• Example: A qualified hairdresser cutting your hair.
• Done with care and using good-quality materials.

Goods must be:

• Merchantable quality: Good enough to match their purpose.
• Example: Christmas lights should work when plugged in.
• Fit for purpose: Must do what they're meant for.
• Example: A fridge must keep food cold.
• As described: Must match their label or description.
• Example: Leather shoes must be real leather.
• Correspond to samples: If you buy based on a display sample, the actual product must match.

What's Not Covered:

• Faults pointed out before the sale (e.g. sale items).
• Misusing goods (e.g. washing wool at the wrong temperature).
• If you change your mind and want to return something.

Consumer Rights Act 2022

• The Consumer Rights Act 2022 is a new law that protects shoppers in Ireland.
• It covers goods, services, and digital products (like apps, downloads, and streaming).
• If something is faulty or not as promised, you can get a repair, replacement, or refund.
• Shops and businesses must give clear and honest information about prices and products.
• The law also protects you when shopping online or using subscriptions.
• The CCPC (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) can take action if businesses break the rules.

Consumer Contracts and Guarantees

• A contract is formed when you buy something.
• The retailer, not the manufacturer, is responsible if goods are faulty.
• A guarantee is a written promise to replace or repair faulty goods for free. 📌 Guarantees are in addition to your legal rights!

Consumer Protection Organisations

Statutory Organisations	Non-statutory Organisations
Office of the Ombudsman	Consumers' Association of Ireland
• Investigates complaints about public services.	• Advises on consumer rights.
Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC)	• Publishes Consumer Choice magazine.
• Enforces competition and safety laws.	• Lobbies for better consumer laws.
• Runs a consumer helpline.	Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland (ASAI)
	• Monitors advertisements to ensure fairness.