SFA says consumer groups 'selective' on price comparisons

The Small Firms Association today gave a cautious welcome to the new National Consumer Agency but warned consumer groups are being selective on pricing comparisons.

Giving a broad welcome to the new consumer agency, the SFA's Pat Delaney said small businesses look forward to a real debate about 'Rip off Ireland'.

Delaney said that both politicians and consumer groups are being selective with the facts regarding claims that in comparison with other European countries Irish consumers are being "ripped off".

"The structure of Irish input costs is having an adverse effect on prices for business just as much

as it does for consumers. It is both vital and honest to compare 'like with like'. The Minister's current premise that Irish businesses are profiteering at the expense of the Irish consumer is strongly rejected by the SFA."