Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has highlighted progress on planned legislation to provide consumers with a statutory right to exit electronic communications service contracts without penalty where an in-contract price increase clause is used to increase the price.

Under the proposed legislation, providers will be required to give consumers advance notice and a right to exit their contract without penalty when they use these clauses to increase prices.

Minister Canney said: “This proposed legislation will provide an important additional protection for consumers where an in-contract price increase clause is used to increase the cost of their service.

“Consumers should have the right to exit without penalty in these circumstances. Consumer protection and ensuring that people do not face barriers when seeking to switch provider are important considerations in bringing this legislation forward.

“There has been engagement with the telecommunications industry as well as consumer and advocacy organisations, and work is continuing with ComReg and other relevant stakeholders.

“It is important that the legislation is workable and enforceable, while striking an appropriate balance between consumer protection and the legitimate commercial interests of providers.”

The Government approved the introduction of primary legislation in November 2025 to provide for a statutory right of exit without penalty where an in-contract price increase clause is used to increase the price of an electronic communications service.

Work on the legislation is continuing, including consultation with industry and advocacy groups, engagement with ComReg and relevant Government Departments, further legal work and preparation of a Regulatory Impact Analysis.

Subject to legal advice, the General Scheme and Regulatory Impact Assessment are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027, with Government approval to draft the Bill to be sought shortly afterwards.