10th November 2026
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke has updated Government on the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (CCPC) Statement of Strategy 2027-2029, highlighting the CCPC’s commitment to delivering tangible and impactful outcomes for consumers and businesses in Ireland.
The Strategy outlines the CCPC's continued mission to protect and promote competition and consumer rights in a rapidly evolving economic environment. It sets out five strategic priorities including cost-of-living issues, compliance with consumer protection law, maximising effectiveness in competition enforcement and merger control.
Reflecting the growing importance of digital technologies, the Strategy also strengthens the CCPC's focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), online platforms and digital markets. The CCPC will play a key role in helping to ensure that innovation benefits consumers, while addressing the emerging challenges such as misleading AI-enabled practices and the sale of unsafe products through online marketplaces.
Minister Burke also updated Government on progress in delivering Programme for Government commitments. The Commission has recently appointed a new Commissioner, Ms Clara Thornton, who will support the strategic delivery of the CCPC’s important mandate. Work continues on the preparation of the draft Heads for the Competition, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Bill, which will strengthen domestic competition, enhance consumer protection and support a fair, transparent and resilient economy.
Speaking today Minister Burke said:
‘‘This strategy recognises the changes taking place across our economy, including ongoing cost of living pressures, the continued growth of online commerce, and the emergence of new technologies such as artificial intelligence. It demonstrates how the CCPC will adapt and respond to these developments, helping to ensure consumers are protected and markets remain fair, open and competitive.
"The Strategy's focus on compliance, consumer confidence and effective competition aligns closely with the Government’s broader objectives of enhancing competitiveness and prioritising the important work of the CCPC."
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth, welcomed the Strategy, stating:
‘‘The CCPC's Strategy Statement 2027-2029 places consumers at the centre of its work. Its focus on digital markets, artificial intelligence and emerging consumer risks will help ensure that innovation is matched by strong consumer protection, transparency and trust.’’
ENDS
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