Further concern over rising energy costs
Business leaders say the impact of the latest gas and electricity price hikes on Ireland's economy will be enormous.
The Commission for Energy Regulation yesterday gave the go ahead for gas prices to go up by 25 per cent from October 1st.
Electricity prices are also set to rise by around four per cent in the New Year.
The Small Firms Association has expressed concern at the decision. Director of the SFA, Pat Delaney, says it will lead to a rise in inflation, the costs of raw materials and wage demands.
The SFA is also predicting a knock on effect on the price of Irish exports, resulting in fewer Irish goods being bought abroad.
