Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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214. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department monitors the prevalence of shrinkflation in the Irish market; if there is a mechanism to publish a list of products affected; and the protections in place to ensure transparency for consumers. [49457/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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215. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has been tasked with monitoring shrinkflation trends; if not, if he will mandate the CCPC to investigate and publish annual reporting on the impact of shrinkflation on household grocery bills; and if the Government will consider compulsory labelling to highlight reduced product sizes. [49458/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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216. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if Ireland has raised the issue of shrinkflation at EU level; if the Commission is considering EU-wide labelling or transparency measures; and if Ireland will support the introduction of mandatory disclosure when product size, weight, or content is reduced without a corresponding price reduction. [49459/25]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 214, 215 and 216 together.

Shrinkflation refers to instances where the size, weight, or content of a product is reduced while the price remains unchanged, resulting in a higher unit price. It can occur across a range of products.

Directive 98/6/EC on price indication allows Member States to adopt more favourable provisions for consumer information, but these must remain consistent with broader EU obligations. I am aware that the European Commission has opened infringement proceedings against a Member State for introducing mandatory shrinkflation labelling, citing concerns about proportionality and the potential impact on the free movement of goods within the Single Market.

There is a risk that unilateral national measures could lead to fragmentation of the Single Market. I understand that the European Commission is considering options under the ‘farm-to-fork’ strategy that may include proposals to strengthen the EU framework on consumer information and food labelling. The European Court of Auditors has also encouraged the Commission to review the existing legal framework and address any gaps that may affect the clarity, consistency, or effectiveness of consumer information rules.

Ireland has not formally raised the issue of shrinkflation at EU level to date, but my Department is closely monitoring these developments. Should proposals emerge that support a harmonised EU-wide approach to shrinkflation labelling—balancing consumer protection with the integrity of the Single Market—they will be considered in due course and discussed with relevant stakeholders.

The CCPC continues to oversee compliance with consumer protection legislation. As the Deputy will be aware, the CCPC is independent in the carrying out of its functions, including any investigations.