Central Bank Of Ireland Consumer Protection Code 2025

The Central Bank of Ireland has taken the final step in reviewing the Consumer Protection Code by publishing its official Feedback Statement. This follows last year’s public consultation on proposed changes to the Code, which will come into effect from 24 March 2026. These updates are designed to strengthen consumer rights and promote fair treatment across Ireland’s financial services sector.

Consumer Protection Regulations

The Central Bank of Ireland has introduced a series of refinements to the Consumer Protection Regulations to provide greater clarity and transparency. Below are some of the key updates that Irish consumers and financial firms should note:

• A new requirement for mortgage providers to supply title deeds to borrowers or their representatives within ten working days of a request, with limited exceptions.
• Revisions to the rules around appointing a trusted contact person to ensure no overlap with the roles outlined in the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015.
• Updated provisions on digitalisation to maintain fairness and transparency while preventing unnecessary barriers for consumers who prefer to engage online.
• A clearer definition of what constitutes a consumer in vulnerable circumstances, acknowledging that vulnerability may be temporary or permanent.
• More flexibility for firms in how they record information about vulnerable consumers, recognising that each person’s situation can differ.

These refinements are intended to ensure that financial firms continue to act responsibly and that Irish consumers receive fair treatment at all times, particularly when additional care is needed.

Guidance on Securing Customer Interests

The Central Bank has also refreshed its Guidance on Securing Customer Interests, outlining how firms should act in the best interests of their clients. The new guidance includes:

• Clarifications on how firms should respond when customers make unwise or risky financial decisions.
• A clearer explanation of the steps firms must take to ensure that advice is proportional, fair, and based on the customer’s needs.
• Additional direction for companies offering green or sustainable financial products to ensure transparency and consumer understanding.
• Further detail on the Central Bank of Ireland’s expectations when firms deal with customers on an execution only basis.

By updating this guidance, the Central Bank is helping to ensure that financial providers across Ireland place the interests of their customers at the centre of every decision.

Protecting Consumers in Vulnerable Circumstances

The updated Guidance on Protecting Consumers in Vulnerable Circumstances includes new recommendations aimed at helping firms identify and safeguard adults who may be at risk of financial exploitation, harm, or abuse. This includes:

• Improved training for staff to recognise and respond appropriately to situations involving vulnerable individuals.
• Clearer use of the term “harm” when discussing how firms interact with customers and assess potential risks.

Together, these changes are designed to modernise consumer protection and ensure that Irish financial firms uphold the highest standards of fairness and accountability.

What This Means for Irish Consumers

For consumers, these updates reaffirm the Central Bank’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and accountability across all financial services. It means that whether you are taking out a mortgage, opening a savings account, or purchasing insurance, you can expect stronger safeguards and clearer communication from your provider.

At CompareInsuranceIreland.ie, we support these efforts to protect Irish consumers and promote responsible financial practices. Our goal is to help you make informed choices about your insurance needs, ensuring that your cover is both comprehensive and affordable.

If you are searching for trusted and competitive policies, compare car insurance and home insurance quotes online today, or contact us on 042 935 9090 for personal assistance.

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