EU infringement proceedings target Ireland over GDPR and concrete standards

The European Parliament adopted a resolution urging the European Commission to start infringement procedures against Ireland for delayed GDPR enforcement, noting that complaints dating from the regulation’s start date in May 2018 remain unresolved. The vote was 541 in favour, one against and 151 abstentions.

Separately, the European Commission has opened infringement proceedings concerning Ireland’s lack of proactive market surveillance for construction products. The action follows complaints from Donegal campaigners about defective concrete blocks. The Commission highlighted that Ireland’s current measures under the EU Concrete Products Directive are inadequate but noted commitments to establish a Building Standards Agency by the end of 2026 and a permanent Building Standards Regulatory Authority to address the crisis.

Both proceedings underscore EU pressure on Irish authorities to implement and enforce consumer‑protection and safety regulations.