Competition and Consumer Policy

Helping to make markets work effectively for consumers and for the economy as a whole

The work of the Department in this area is primarily concerned with consumer protection and welfare and the operation of markets which fall under three main headings:

• national policy on current competition and consumer matters,
• supporting as well as liaising with and monitoring the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) which exercises the main executive and operational responsibilities under competition and consumer legislation, and
• contributing to the legislative and policy work of the European Union on competition and consumer policy.

In summary, the role can be described as helping to make markets work effectively for consumers and for the economy as a whole.

European Commission Proposal: New Competition Tool

The Department is seeking the views of any interested parties on the EU Commission’s proposal for a New Competition Tool and to the measures proposed and policy options identified by the EU Commission: European Commission Proposal: New Competition Tool

COVID-19 information hub

CCPC information about consumer rights and obligations on businesses in relation to COVID-19: COVID-19 information hub

Brexit and your business

CCPC information and guidance relating to Brexit and your business: Brexit and your business 

Brexit and your consumer rights

CCPC information on how Brexit will impact on your consumer rights: Brexit and your consumer rights

Section 4 of the Competition Act 2002 – Application for Exemption

Under the Competition Act 2002, a Trade Union may seek an exemption from the application of section 4 of the Act in respect of certain classes of self-employed workers. The Trade Union must apply for such an exemption in the format set out in the application form: Guidance Note and Application Form.