Commission secures compensation orders for consumer against Dublin car trader
December 8, 2015
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (“the Commission”) has today secured compensation orders for consumers who had been provided with misleading information with respect to a vehicle.
Following the Commission’s investigation and subsequent prosecution, Mr. Brian Fassnidge was sentenced by Judge John O’Neill in the Dublin District Court to pay €4,000 in total in fines, €10,000 in costs and €1,000 in compensation to consumers. This is in addition to the €17,200 which Mr. Fassnidge has repaid to the affected consumers – a total of €32,200. Today’s sentencing follows Mr. Fassnidge’s conviction in October 2014 for providing misleading information to the consumers when purchasing their vehicles and for also supplying a dangerous vehicle to one consumer.
Speaking today Isolde Goggin Chairperson of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission said; “The Commission welcomes the outcome of today’s proceedings. This has been a lengthy process but we are happy to see the award of compensation to those consumers who were affected.
The purchase of a car is a very significant decision for a consumer and they should be able to trust and rely on the information provided by car dealers, so they can make a fully informed choice. The Commission was particularly concerned that any trader would provide a dangerous vehicle to a consumer. As today’s case shows the Commission will use its powers to challenge and take enforcement action against anyone who attempts to mislead consumers or put them at risk in this way.
Given the amount of money involved and the potential safety risks, the motor sector is a priority for us. As a result we have a significant programme of activity planned in this sector. The Commission is taking a proactive approach based on the information provided to us by consumers and as a result of market surveillance. From this we will identify where issues keep occurring and we will align our activity with these traders.”
If consumers have information that a dealer has provided false or misleading information about a car’s use or history, they can contact the Commission’s helpline 1890 432 432.
The Commission also has extensive information available on its website, www.consumerhelp.ie, to help consumers avoid potential pitfalls when buying a second-hand car.
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