Why It Costs More to Live in Ireland – And How You Can Cut Everyday Expenses Ireland is officially one of the most expensive countries in Europe to live in—second only to Denmark1, according to The Irish Times. From groceries and childcare to rent and energy bills, Irish consumers are paying a premium across nearly every category. So, why are everyday costs so high? Consumer expert Conor ... read more>

Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB) recently said that the Euro could be available to European consumers as a digital currency in as little as four years. As a digital currency, your Euros would exist as legal tender on your smartphone without the need for a bank account. Essentially, the consumer has a direct relationship with the ECB as the issuer and guarantor of ... read more>

In 2000 the Electronic Signature Bill was signed into law in Ireland giving e-signatures equal status to ink signatures on paper. Many will remember when Bill Clinton and Bertie Ahern electronically signed an agreement using the new legislation. So, why is it that a significant number of interactions Irish consumers have with Government services and with private sector suppliers still requir... read more>

Recently I was asked to Chair a Government taskforce on SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises). Running a household can sometimes feel like running a small business and some of the conclusions and actions items coming from the taskforce are very relevant to householders. Plus, many One Big Switch members are sole traders or small business owners so the Report published here  might be of relevance ... read more>

In December 2018 the Right Honourable Priti Patel, now the UK Home Secretary, announced she would be in favour of interrupting food supplies to Ireland if we did not toe the line to avoid a no-deal Brexit. Now, having done our very best to help get a deal in place, it looks like Minister Patel is still getting her way with a swath of interruptions and shortages affecting the Irish consumer. ... read more>