Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
1297. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the protections and recourse available to consumers from excessive ticket prices for sporting and entertainment events. [35130/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraTicket prices for entertainment events are set by the performer and their representatives in consultation with the promoter. For sporting events the bodies which govern the sport set ticket prices.
While ticket prices are not governed by specific legislative provisions in Ireland, they are, however, subject to general consumer protection legislation. The Consumer Protection Act 2007 (CPA) includes a prohibition on false or misleading indications of the price or the recommended price of goods or services. It also dictates that the price displayed must be complete, and there should be no hidden charges included. The CPA protects consumers from misleading, aggressive or prohibited practices.
The EU Consumer Rights Directive (CRD) has been implemented in Ireland by the European Union (Consumer Information, Cancellation and Other Rights) Regulations, S.I. 484 of 2013 and provides consumers with increased protection when they enter into contracts either on premises, off premises (doorstep sales) or at distance with web traders based in Ireland and other EU countries. The CRD contains a range of provisions which businesses have to comply with. These provisions include bans on hidden charges, as well as an extended right of withdrawal period.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory independent body responsible for the enforcement of domestic and EU competition and consumer law in the State. If a consumer considers that his or her consumer rights have been breached he or she should contact the CCPC.
