Our advocacy role
The National Consumer Agency (NCA) has been set up by the Irish government to be a powerful advocate on behalf of consumers. The introduction of a strong advocacy function represents an important progression in the Irish consumer protection/representation landscape. The NCA will strive to deliver a coherent and well-networked advocacy function, whose activities will be informed by rigorous research and supported by comprehensive consumer awareness and educational activities.
The role of consumer advocate requires involvement in consumer affairs at many levels. A strong focus will be placed upon establishing good relationships with legislators, government departments and relevant bodies, where representation of consumer interests early in the process can influence and shape emerging legislation and public policy initiatives. Advocacy is also important at the local level, to encourage widespread implementation of and compliance with relevant legislation or policy guidelines.
To be truly effective, advocacy should be a two-way process, with core messages emerging from advocacy work being channelled back into internal policy research & development to ensure that the disparate views of all relevant stakeholders in the consumer arena are considered. The NCA's credibility as Ireland's statutory consumer protection agency will be underpinned through the use of sound research and rigorous analysis to support its advocacy activities.