Food sector denies it is driving high inflation

PUBLICANS and restaurant owners have rejected suggestions of profiteering after their sector was named as a primary contributor to high inflation.

The Forfás Consumer Pricing Report 2003 ranks Ireland as the most expensive country in the euro zone for pubs and restaurants.

The cost of socialising and dining out in pubs and restaurants rose by 8% last year, compared to the general inflation rate of 5%. Since 2000, price levels have risen by almost 22%.