Cosnumer Legisation 3 Flashcards
What is the CCPC?
The CCPC (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) is the state agency that promotes fair competition and protects the interests of consumers.
What services does the CCPC provide to the public?
The CCPC provides information and advice on personal finance and consumer rights.
What services does the CCPC provide to businesses?
The CCPC provides information and advice on businesses’ obligations.
How does the CCPC advise the government?
The CCPC advises the government on how to best achieve the commission’s goals.
What enforcement powers does the CCPC have?
The CCPC can legally enter a business to collect evidence, issue fines, and bring people to court.
What can be done with serious offences reported to the CCPC?
Serious offences can be reported to the DPP.
What does the CCPC publish?
The CCPC publishes a Consumer Protection list of businesses found in breach of consumer law.
What are non-legislative ways to resolve consumer complaints?
Talk, know your rights, ask to speak to the manager, write a letter of complaint to the retailer with proof of purchase.
What third-party organizations can consumers seek help from?
- The CCPC
- The Consumers’ Association of Ireland
- Trade associations
- Financial Services Ombudsman
- The Office of the Ombudsman for the Public Service
What does the Consumers’ Association of Ireland do?
It protects and promotes the interests of consumers, publishes reports and surveys, runs an advice service, and lobbies the government.
What is the role of the Financial Services Ombudsman?
Handles complaints with financial institutions; their decision is binding but can be brought to court for a legislative solution.
What does the Office of the Ombudsman for the Public Service specialize in?
Specializes in complaints against state-owned organizations.
What is required before contacting the Office of the Ombudsman for the Public Service?
You must first try to resolve the complaint with the body itself and then contact them within 12 months of the incident.
What are legislative ways to resolve consumer complaints?
Hire a solicitor for complaints too large for the small claims procedure.
What are the advantages of using the courts’ small claims procedure?
- Faster
- Cheaper
- Accessible
- Unbiased
What are the disadvantages of using the courts’ small claims procedure?
- Only deals with complaints to a limited value (€2,000)
- Recommendation is not legally binding
- If not satisfied, you will still have to go through the courts.
