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Electric Ireland have today (Friday 8 January 2021) announced they will be increasing their prices by 3.7% from 1 February 2021. This will see the typical Electric Ireland customer needing to find up to an extra £21 per year.

The Consumer Council has announced Noyona Chundur as its new Chief Executive. Noyona took up her post today (Tuesday 5 January 2021). She joins The Consumer Council from Invest Northern Ireland where she was Head of Campaigns and Digital Solutions since 2006, joining the organisation in 2004. She led their communications strategy for Northern Ireland, winning multiple internationally recognised awards for marketing and digital innovation, and is also Chair of the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.

Following the publication of temporary guidance for parcels moving between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) from 1 January 2021, The Consumer Council has said it remains concerned about the long-term solution for NI consumers and businesses.

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The Consumer Council is concerned that consumers in Northern Ireland could face potential new difficulties when shopping online from 1 January 2021, following the end of the transition period. Custom administration could be applied to parcels arriving in Northern Ireland from GB, which will likely lead to higher costs, delays and reduced choice for Northern Ireland consumers shopping online.

The Consumer Council is calling for small businesses getting their mail redirected during COVID-19 to check they are getting a new cheaper rate, saving up to £1,000.

The Consumer Council has welcomed new rules designed by the Utility Regulator to limit the length of time electricity and gas companies can back bill domestic and microbusiness consumers.

The Board and staff of The Consumer Council wish to congratulate Chief Executive, John French, on his recent appointment to the role of Chief Executive of the Utility Regulator.

Scammers are targeting farmers and agricultural businesses across Northern Ireland. Therefore, it is more important than ever to take extra precautions to avoid falling victim to fraud or a scam.

The Consumer Council is encouraging individual consumers or local organisations to take part in a new initiative to help improve access to cash within Northern Ireland.