Consumers ‘fail to unite and tackle high prices’

THE failure of consumers to organise as well as their EU counterparts means they are left out of Government decision making, according to a report from the Tánaiste’s department.

The Department of Enterprise action plan says, as a result, consumers do not have the same say as other vested interests in the policy-making process and notes Irish prices are the second highest in the eurozone.

“While the development of a strong consumer lobby is primarily the responsibility of organisations that represent the interests of consumers there is a growing concern to ensure such development is to be encouraged by whatever means possible, including ensuring there are adequate opportunities and mechanisms for the interests of consumers to be reflected in the policy making process,” the report says, stating a Consumer Advisory Council and the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority have been set up and will have a strong consumer focus.