Retailers warn packaging levy would raise prices of goods

Retailers are warning that the proposed introduction of a packaging levy would mean higher prices for consumers.

The Department of the Environment is considering the new tax and is currently looking at submissions from interested parties.

Retail Ireland said it would effectively be a double tax as they already have to pay the compliance costs of REPAK membership and the new levy would undoubtedly be passed on to customers.

Director Torlach Denihan said packaging is "a necessary evil".