Running ‘pyramid schemes’ where a person pays money into a scheme but, instead of getting a product or service, their only benefit arises from persuading other people to join the scheme after them.
6. What services can assist consumers to resolve complaints?
There are a number of organisations that can assist consumers to resolve complaints. Some are funded by the state and some are privately run.
Courts Service Small Claims Procedure The Small Claims Procedure provided by the Courts Service is an inexpensive, fast and easy way for consumers to resolve disputes without employing a solicitor.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the State agency responsible for promoting fair competition and protecting the interests of consumers.
The Commission: • Provides information and advice to the public on their rights as consumers through its website, publications and telephone helplines.
• Provides information and advice to businesses on their legal responsibilities to consumers.
• Advises the government on how best to ensure there is fair competition and that the welfare of consumers is protected.
• Enforces consumer laws by investigating suspected serious breaches. The agency has the power to enter business premises, accompanied by Gardaí, to gather evidence. It can issue on-the-spot fines to businesses for some breaches of consumer law. It can also bring serious offenders to court.
• Publishes a Consumer Protection List that ‘names and shames’ businesses found breaching consumer law.
Financial Services Ombudsman The Financial Services Ombudsman specialises in resolving consumer complaints against banks, insurance companies, credit unions and other financial institutions. The decision of the Ombudsman is binding on the institutions involved. However, if consumers are still dissatisfied they can go to court.
