Competition law

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is responsible for, inter alia, enforcement and promotion of Irish and European competition and consumer law.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is responsible for enforcing Irish and European competition law. Behaviour that deprives consumers of the benefits of competition reduces the choice available to consumers, causes them to pay more, deprives them of new products and services, and undermines economic growth.

For any breach of Irish or European competition law, the Commission may have the right to seek a criminal prosecution, to pursue the matter in the civil courts, or both.  It has the power to investigate if there is evidence that businesses are involved in anti-competitive practices, such as price-fixing, or that businesses are abusing a dominant position. It can also block mergers between businesses that would substantially reduce competition and harm consumers.

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.