'Right to repair' rules come into effect
Regulations aimed at strengthening consumers' rights to have products repaired have come into effect.
The Government says that the new rules are designed to make repair a more attractive and accessible option, helping to extend the life of products and reduce waste.
The European Union (Common Rules Promoting the Repair of Goods) Regulations 2026 bring the EU Right to Repair Directive into Irish law.
The regulations introduce new rights and supports that include a repair obligation for manufacturers of certain products subject to EU repairability requirements, a standardised European Repair Information Form, and the establishment of a national repair platform to help consumers locate repair services.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment says that the national repair directory, RepairMyStuff.ie, will be "further developed" to fulfil the role as Ireland’s national repair platform.
'Opportunities for businesses'
The rules will:
- Make it easier for consumers to access repair services when products develop faults outside of the seller's liability period,
- Improve transparency through the European Repair Information Form, allowing consumers to receive clear and consistent information on repair services,
- Support consumers in locating repair providers through a national repair platform linked to the wider European repair network, and
- Encourage longer product lifespans and reduce the need for premature replacement of goods.
Peter Burke (Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment) said that the measures would create opportunities for Irish businesses operating in the repair and refurbishment sectors.
"In implementing the directive, we have sought to strike the right balance between supporting consumers, encouraging sustainable economic activity, and ensuring that businesses are not faced with unnecessary regulatory burdens," he stated.