New consumer legislation to be unveiled

Details of new consumer legislation that will outlaw unfair commercial practices will be announced later today.

Measures on tackling 'pyramid' schemes, which have targeted people nationwide costing them millions of euro, are expected to be highlighted in the act.

The gardaí have been urged to launch a massive crackdown on the schemes and put those running the scams out of business.

Micheál Martin, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, will announce the Government’s plans this morning.

The opposition claimed last week that consumers have failed to benefit from the abolition of the Groceries Order, with food prices continuing to soar.

The order, which banned the sale of groceries below their wholesale prices, was abolished in March and new competition legislation was introduced.