20 Years ECC Ireland
As the ECC Network (ECC-Net) marks its 20th anniversary, each ECC shares unforgettable moments, taking us on a journey through the local initiatives they have undertaken over the years. Here, ECC Ireland presents its highlights over the past 20 years.
Fostering strong connections
Over the past two decades, ECC Ireland has supported thousands of consumers, helping them understand their rights and seek fair outcomes if things go wrong when shopping or travelling abroad.
Hosted by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), and as part of the European Consumer Centres Network, the Irish team works closely with consumer authorities and other ECCs to resolve cross-border issues amicably. This cooperation enables the Irish team to resolve complaints efficiently and ensure consumers receive consistent support when dealing with traders in another country.
ECC Ireland is proud to be part of this shared effort. The team marked the Network’s 20th anniversary alongside colleagues across Europe, celebrating two decades of cooperation, problem-solving and consumer support.
ECC Ireland celebrating the ECC Networks 20th anniversary
Supporting consumers in 2024
Alongside the anniversary celebrations, ECC Ireland can look back on a strong year of consumer support. In 2024, the Centre responded to 2,317 consumer queries and complaints, assisting consumers in Ireland and across Europe with cross-border issues.
Over the year, ECC Ireland recovered €203,390 for consumers. Almost half of all complaints were resolved successfully, helping consumers secure refunds, compensation or other satisfactory outcomes.
Irish consumers most frequently contacted the service about faulty goods and non-delivery, while European consumers seeking help from ECC Ireland often experienced travel-related problems such as delays and cancellations. These cases reflect the practical, day-to-day challenges faced by consumers and the role of ECC Ireland in addressing them.
Celebrating achievements in consumer protection
During the anniversary year, ECC Ireland’s work was recognised by European Commissioner Michael McGrath, who visited the team to acknowledge the contribution of the ECC Network to consumer protection across Europe. The CCPC Chair, Brian McHugh, also highlighted the value of the service, while ECCI Director Colette Crowne expressed her pride in the team and its work.
I was delighted to mark 20 years of the European Consumer Centre Network and to recognise the outstanding work of European Consumer Centre Ireland — supporting nearly 3,000 Irish consumers and 3,200 EU consumers with cross-border issues in just the past 20 months. Their role is vital in protecting consumers and ensuring that only safe products reach our homes. Consumer protection touches all of us — whether we’re shopping online or on the high street, we all deserve to be treated fairly and kept safe.
Looking ahead
As the ECC Network celebrates 20 years, ECC Ireland remains focused on supporting consumers and helping them resolve cross-border problems fairly and effectively. The anniversary is both a moment to recognise the work done to date and a chance to look ahead to continued cooperation and consumer support across Europe.
Want to know more about the ECC Network or ECC Ireland?
Are you curious about all ECC-Net activities? Check out our dedicated 20th anniversary page.
Want to learn more about ECC Estonia's activities and services? Check out their local website.