The European Consumer Centre Ireland (ECCI) handled 4,182 complaints last year, and recovered €421,000 for Irish and other consumers from businesses across European Union.
According to the 2025 ECCI annual report, Irish consumers accounted for almost half (48%) of all complaints and enquiries it dealt with.
The centre assists consumers based in Ireland who have a problem with an EU business in any member state.
Air travel accounted for the largest share of complaints last year (34%), while just over half of all complaints were referred by partner consumer centres across Europe.
The ECCI, which is hosted by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, said complaints around air travel “reflect ongoing challenges such as schedule changes, weather events, industrial action and global conflicts”.
It also noted that complaints covered a “broad range of issues”, including flight cancellations, baggage disputes, and intermediary-related disputes.
The organisation said it helped Irish consumers recover €102,729 in 2025, with €318,271 recovered for consumers from other EU countries.
Most complaints related to businesses based in the UK, followed by businesses in the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and France.
Commenting on the report, ECCI Director Colette Crowne said that “complaints around flight disruptions have dropped which suggests airlines are abiding by consumer protection laws, and refunding and rerouting as required”.
“However, we have seen increases in complaints regarding late check-in and oversized baggage charges. Airlines have a responsibility to ensure their baggage and check-in requirements are clearly communicated to passengers before travel to help them avoid unexpected charges at the airport.”
The top issues reported by consumers to the ECCI related to faulty goods, non-delivery, misleading practices, contract cancellations, and right of withdrawal.
Ms Crowne said that consumers have “strong rights when buying products across the EU”.
“If a product is faulty, the seller must fix the problem through a repair or replacement. If the seller is unable to offer you a repair or replacement or if this does not correct the problem, you can ask for a refund.”
ECCI is part of an EU-wide network, with a remit to provide advice about consumer rights when buying goods and services in the EU and associated countries.
