IBEC calls for halt on electricity price hikes

The employers' group IBEC has called for no further price hikes in the cost of electricity.

IBEC has criticised the latest 3.5% rise granted by the energy regulator.

It takes effect on January 1 and comes just a week after a 9% increase was approved which is already being added to bills.

IBEC's Tanya Harrington said the country cannot remain at the mercy of international oil and gas prices.

“The Government should produce a national energy strategy which places the needs of business environment and the sustainability of this economy,” she said.