Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 12th November  2024
Amends: Companies Act 2014



Mini Summary

 

The Companies Act 2014 sets out that company directors must comply with requirements when forming, operating and restructuring companies, including reporting on environmental sustainability. The Act consolidates previous laws, providing a single piece of primary legislation governing company law in Ireland.

 
Duties
 

Various duties apply and are available to view on the Legislation Update Service. 

 

Amendment

 

Procedural and technical changes are made, including:

 

  • specifying the circumstances when a company is not entitled to an audit exemption; and
  • expanding the grounds under which companies may be prosecuted or struck off.
 

This update has no direct relevance to environmental matters. 

 

Link to full government text

Jurisdiction: EU
Commencement: 10th December  2024
Amends: New Legislation

 

Mini Summary

 
Member States must ensure that outdoor air quality is assessed and managed, to minimise harmful effects on human and environmental health and support achieving a zero-pollution objective by 2050.

 

Summary

 

Air quality provisions for Member States aiming to achieve a zero-pollution objective by 2050 are set out in this Directive. Objectives for ambient air* quality designed to avoid, prevent or reduce harmful effects on human and environmental health are defined. 

 

*Ambient air refers to outdoor air in the atmosphere, excluding workplaces.  

 

Duties

For information only. There are no direct compliance duties for organisations under this Directive.

 

Link to full government text

Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 8th November  2024
Amends: Derelict Sites Act 1990


Mini Summary

 

The Derelict Sites Act 1990 sets out a list of areas that are classed as urban areas.

This includes areas in the following counties.

  • Clare.
  • Cork.
  • Kilkenny.
  • Mayo.
  • Monaghan.
  • Sligo.
  • Waterford.
 
 

Duties

 

There are no duties for organisations under these Regulations.

 
 

Amendment

 

A range of new locations are designated as urban areas under the Derelict Sites Act 1990. The full list of new locations can be found in the Schedule and are situated in the following counties:

• County Clare
• County Cork
• County Kilkenny
• County Mayo
• County Monaghan
• County Sligo
• County Waterford

 

Link to full government text

Our charity, Newground Together, is funded by your support and was founded with the mission to create positive change and empower communities.


With this in mind our charity understands that thriving communities are built on the dedication and passion of remarkable individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference. That’s why Newground Together was honoured to sponsor the Community Volunteer Awards, an event that shines a spotlight on the invaluable efforts of volunteers across our region.


The Community Volunteer Awards, hosted by Community CVS, honour the often-overlooked individuals whose dedication transforms lives and strengthens communities. This event highlights their remarkable efforts, celebrating the profound difference they make to those they support and the places they call home. By showcasing their achievements, it not only recognises their selflessness but also fosters a broader appreciation for the impact of volunteering, inspiring others to get involved and contribute to meaningful change.


Sponsoring the Community Volunteer Awards perfectly reflects Newground Together’s core values. As a charity dedicated to strengthening communities and enhancing lives, Newground Together recognises the profound impact that volunteers have every day. Supporting this event is a way to honour their contributions and highlight the vital role community spirit plays in creating lasting change.


Newground Together takes great pride in working alongside dedicated volunteers who play a crucial role in delivering their services and initiatives. From environmental projects to youth programmes and community wellbeing efforts, volunteers are the driving force behind their impact. Their passion and commitment inspire Newground Together to strive for even greater achievements for the communities they serve.


Sponsoring the Community Volunteer Awards is a way for Newground Together to celebrate this spirit of generosity and teamwork. It’s a chance to honour volunteers, inspire others to get involved, and emphasise that through collective effort, thriving and connected communities can flourish.


To all the volunteers honoured at this year’s awards and beyond—thank you. Your dedication transforms lives, strengthens communities, and creates a brighter future for everyone.


The Compliance People are immensely proud to contribute 100% of our profits to our parent charity, Newground Together, helping to support their vital work in empowering communities and making a lasting impact.

Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 25th October  2024
Amends: New Legislation


Mini Summary

 
Importers of the goods listed in Annex 1 of Regulation (EU) 2023/956 establishing a carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM Regulation) and customs representatives* (where relevant) must demonstrate compliance by gaining authorised CBAM declarant status, and submitting an annual CBAM declaration.
 
*Where an importer is not established in the Republic of Ireland, a customs representative who is established in the country must submit the application for authorisation.
 
The Regulations came into force on 25th October 2024 and implement the requirements set out in the CBAM Regulation, which aims to promote the reduction of global carbon emissions supporting the goals of the Paris Agreement.
 
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or an authorised officer* is responsible for the review of CBAM applications, the sale of certificates, and the collection of penalty payments.
 
*An authorised officer is appointed by the EPA to help ensure compliance with these Regulations and the CBAM Regulation.  
 

Duties

Various duties apply and are available to view on the Legislation Update Service.

Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 17th October  2024
Amends: Road Traffic Acts 1961 – 2024


Mini Summary

 
 
The Road Traffic Acts 1961 – 2024 applies to vehicles on public roads.  
 
General requirements for vehicles

Part 2 sets out the general requirements for vehicles including maximum allowable weights, the requirement to weigh certain vehicles, vehicle permits, the requirement to test vehicles, and the powers of the Garda Síochána to examine, inspect and test vehicles. 
 
Driving licences

Part 3 sets out information on the application, granting of and disqualification of driving licences. It also covers certificates of competency. 
 
Speed limits

Part 4 outlines the speed limits that can be applied to public roads.
 
Offences

Part 5 sets out a series of driving offences. It is an offence to:
  • drive a vehicle when suffering from a disease (mental or physical) that diminishes the driver’s capacity to drive, or makes them a danger to others; 
  • drive under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol or drugs) to the extent they have improper control of the vehicle;
  • drive without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for others using that space; 
  • drive at a speed or a manner in which is dangerous to the public; 
  • drive when they are aware that a vehicular defect may make the vehicle a danger to the public; and 
  • park in a manner that will likely cause danger to others. 
  • Compulsory insurance of mechanically propelled vehicles
Part 6 sets out the obligation for drivers to be insured when driving a vehicle on a public road.
 
Control and Operation of Public Service Vehicles

Part 7 allows the Minister for Local Government (‘the Minister’) to make regulations concerning the control and operation of public service vehicles*.

*A public service vehicle is any vehicle used to transport a person for reward (i.e. payment).
 
Regulation of traffic

Part 8 establishes rules for the regulation and control of traffic and pedestrians in public places. This includes traffic signs and the prohibition of traffic from using footways. 

Penalties

Part 9 sets out notices and penalties for committing an offence. It also sets limits for continuous driving.   
 

Amendment

 

The exemptions applicable to members of Garda Síochána for vehicles and requirements, restrictions and prohibitions relating to the driving and use of vehicles, are extended to include trainees and their instructors.

This amendment has no direct relevance to occupational health and safety matters

 

Link to full government text

Jurisdiction: Republic of Ireland
Commencement: 16th October  2024
Amends: Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2024

 

Mini Summary

 
 
The Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2024 apply to new buildings, extensions, material alterations and changes of use of buildings. They detail, in relation to buildings, the health, safety and welfare of people, conservation of fuel and energy, and access for people with disabilities.
 
 

Duties

 

Various duties apply and are available to view on the Legislation Update Service.

 
 

Amendment

 

Exemptions from the requirements for commencement notices and fire safety certificates are introduced for works on Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings.*.

*Tier 1 and 2 buildings include apartments and duplexes constructed between 1991 and 2013 for which Tier 1 or 2 fire safety remediation options are considered appropriate in accordance with the “Code of Practice for the Remediation of Fire Safety Defects”.

This amendment has no direct relevance to environmental matters.

 

Link to full government text

At The Compliance People, we’re committed to giving back. Our profits go straight to our parent charity, Newground Together, whose programmes create real, positive change in communities.

 

Every interaction you have with us directly supports our charity’s objectives, such as supporting Children and Young People. Take Jane’s story as an example—a young girl whose life took a brighter turn thanks to the support she received through Newground Together’s initiatives.

 

Background

Jane is a 12-year-old student from Darwen who came to one of Newground Together’s programmes aimed at helping young people build social skills and confidence. Recently, she’d faced significant change: a new family setup, the loss of her mother, and a move to a new area. For Jane, building a circle of supportive friends was more important than ever, and her family knew she needed encouragement and a safe space to grow.

 

Creating a Positive Environment

Newground Together’s team designed sessions to give Jane and other young people a welcoming, comfortable space. Often working with groups of 50 participants, they created smaller, age-focused groups to make it easier for Jane to connect. With her coordinator, RT, supporting her, Jane soon found herself joining the social action group, where she thrived and took on more responsibility.

 

Facing Challenges with Courage

After the family’s move, Jane’s parents found it challenging to arrange transport to the sessions, especially as they were adjusting to a new area. But rather than let that stop her, Jane joined in mixed-age activities with younger children, including her younger sisters. This didn’t hold her back; in fact, she adapted with ease, becoming a positive influence in these groups. One memorable moment was during a water activity when Jane encouraged a younger participant to keep going. Her words of motivation—“Don’t give up; we’re getting closer”—showed her strength and kindness.

 

Exploring Creativity and Building Friendships

Outside of these activities, Jane also embraced the creative sessions offered by Newground Together, excelling in arts and crafts. Here, she built a meaningful friendship with another girl her age, giving her a sense of connection and belonging. This bond became a great support for Jane, helping her to feel more at ease and valued within the group.

 

Thankyou

Jane’s story is just one example of the impact Newground Together’s programmes are making every day. When you work with The Compliance People, you’re not only helping your organisation meet its compliance goals—you’re also investing in programmes that help young people overcome challenges and gain confidence. Your support means young people like Jane can find the encouragement and opportunities they need to flourish.

Thank you for being part of this journey and for choosing a partnership that extends beyond compliance, reaching into communities and helping build better futures.

Background

Smoking has been banned in virtually all enclosed work and public places across the UK since 2007. Whilst each country applies similar restrictions to prohibit smoking to tackle preventable morbidity and death, the requirements for signage vary.

England

The Smoke-free (Signs) Regulations 2012 have relaxed requirements around no-smoking signs.

  • At least 1 legible no-smoking sign must still be displayed in smoke-free premises, but owners are free to decide the size, design and location of the sign.

N.B. the requirement for a sign to be placed at the entrance to a premises no longer applies.

Wales

The requirements remain stricter under the Smoke-free Premises and Vehicles (Wales) Regulations 2020.

  • The sign must contain a ‘no-smoking’ symbol with appropriate warning text in both English and Welsh.
  • The sign must be located at the main entrance to the premises. If there is more than one main entrance, a ‘no-smoking’ sign must be displayed at each of them.
  • School grounds, hospital grounds and public playgrounds must also display ‘no smoking’ signs in a prominent position.

Scotland
Under The Prohibition of Smoking in Certain Premises (Scotland) Regulations 2006, signs must:

  • be a minimum size of 230mm by 160mm;
  • display the ‘no-smoking’ symbol (this must be at least 85mm in diameter);
  • display the name of the person to whom to report people smoking to;
  • be able to be seen and read by people in the premises and approaching the premises; and
  • be displayed in a way that is protected from tampering, damage, removal or concealment.

Northern Ireland

The Smoke-Free (Signs) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007 require signs in smoke free buildings to:

  • be flat and at least 148mm by 210mm;
  • display the ‘no-smoking’ symbol;
  • contain the words ‘No smoking. It is against the law to smoke on these premises’; and
  • be displayed in a prominent position at each entrance to the smoke-free premises.

Entrances to smoke-free premises from other smoke-free premises, or secondary entrances to smoke-free premises used only by workers, may display the ‘no smoking’ symbol without wording.

Vehicles

A no-smoking sign is still required in all smoke free work vehicles in all jurisdictions.

Jurisdiction: EU
Commencement: 1st May  2026
Amends: Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures


Mini Summary

 
The Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures introduces a globally harmonised system for classification, labelling and packaging of hazardous chemicals into European law. This Regulation is directly enforceable in EU Member States and is also enforceable in Northern Ireland. (Following the UK’s departure from the EU, this Regulation has been incorporated (with amendments) into law in Great Britain. There is a separate entry which describes the GB version of CLP.)
 

Duties

 

Various duties apply and are available to view on the Legislation Update Service.

 
 

Amendment

 

Annex VI – harmonised classification and labelling for certain hazardous substances is updated. The modifications include harmonised classification and labelling for a significant number of substances being introduced, updated or removed. 

To allow sufficient time for suppliers to adapt, the changes will apply from 1st May 2026. 

 

Link to full government text