Cost of living rises again as inflation hits 5.1% in March

Ireland's inflation rate has jumped again over the past month, according to figures released today by the Central Statistics Office.

The CSO says the inflation rate for March was 5.1%, compared to 4.8% in February.

The main factors driving the hike in the cost of living are interest rates, rising air fares, price increases for petrol and diesel and increased charges in rISEestaurants and hotels.

The Consumers Association is calling on the Government to reduce VAT and stamp duty to help people cope with rising costs.