Robert O'Donoghue (Dublin Fingal West, Labour)
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913. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the impact of dynamic pricing practices in the sale of tickets to cultural, entertainment, recreational and sporting events; his plans to support and bring forward to Second Stage the Sale of Tickets (Cultural, Entertainment, Recreational and Sporting Events) (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced by the then Deputy Jim O’Callaghan, Senator Timmy Dooley and Deputy Niamh Smyth, which proposes to prohibit dynamic pricing by primary ticket sellers and ensure that consumers pay the price originally advertised at the point of sale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42338/25]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I thank the Deputy for his question regarding dynamic pricing practices in ticket sales and the proposed Sale of Tickets (Cultural, Entertainment, Recreational and Sporting Events) (Amendment) Bill 2024.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the independent statutory body responsible for enforcing competition and consumer protection law under the remit of my Department. The CCPC monitors compliance across all sectors, including ticketing, and investigates potential breaches of consumer law.

The Sale of Tickets Act 2021 was introduced to promote fairer access to tickets for cultural, entertainment, recreational and sporting events. It prohibits the resale or advertisement of tickets above face value for designated events or venues. This legislation has proven effective in curbing ticket touting, and event organisers have actively engaged with my Department to ensure high-profile events are designated under the Act.

In relation to dynamic pricing, it is important to note that this practice is not prohibited under consumer law. Businesses may adjust prices based on demand, provided that the final price is clearly and accurately displayed to the consumer before the purchase is completed. Consumer protection legislation requires traders to provide key information in advance of a transaction, including the total price—taxes and charges included—so that consumers can make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Dynamic pricing is common in sectors such as aviation and hospitality, where consumers understand that prices fluctuate based on timing and demand.

However, I acknowledge the concerns raised regarding dynamic pricing in ticket sales. In response to complaints received about ticket pricing in August 2024, the CCPC has opened an investigation. The CCPC has confirmed that legitimate concerns exist and will take appropriate enforcement action if consumer protection laws have been breached. As Minister, I respect the CCPC’s independence and await the outcome of this investigation, which will inform any future policy considerations.

Regarding the proposed Sale of Tickets (Cultural, Entertainment, Recreational and Sporting Events) (Amendment) Bill 2024, I recognise the Bill’s objective to prohibit dynamic pricing by primary ticket sellers and to ensure that consumers pay the price originally advertised at the point of sale. Given the public concern and the seriousness of the issues raised, I intend to give this Bill careful consideration. The findings of the CCPC’s ongoing investigation will be central to informing the Government’s position, and I will work with colleagues across Government to assess the Bill’s proposals in the context of strengthening consumer protection and ensuring fairness in ticketing practices.

I trust this response clarifies the current position and outlines the steps being taken to address concerns around ticket pricing practices.