Who will end up footing bill for Groceries Bill?

FOR the first time in half a century the Irish food market is a ‘free for all” and food prices are coming down.

The abolished Groceries Order - latest version in place since 1987 - made it an offence to sell most food items below the invoice cost. New legislation to prevent predatory pricing is promised - but it is likely to be at least year before it comes into effect.

Life after the controversial Groceries Order is predicted to reduce inflation by up to 1% as competition drives down prices. The Government will like that. Low inflation is good for the economy. The Order covered about 80% of the items in the average housewife’s shopping basket. Food is now forecast to cost between €50 and €100 per month less for the average family.