Dunnes Stores donates to charity over missing prices
The Dublin company had also admitted one charge of contravening the Consumer Information Act by indicated a price of €3.68 per kilo of broccoli but charging €3.99.
At Dublin District Court on Tuesday the judge said he would strike out the summonses so long as the company made a substantial donation to a Dublin good cause called Alone, which looks after the elderly.
Yesterday the judge formally struck out the summonses after receiving proof the money had been paid.
Dunnes Stores admitted failing to display prices of certain grocery products at its Georges Street, Swords and North Earl Street branches, all in Dublin, and to have displayed the wrong price of broccoli.
Speaking after the district court decision, the Director of Consumer Affairs, Carmel Foley, said: “Retailers must display their prices so that consumers can make informed choices on where to get the best value.
“The fact Dunnes Stores were not convicted does not take from the message.
“My office will continue to actively enforce the legislation to ensure that consumers’ rights are protected.
“In view of the Christmas season, I am delighted that Alone has benefited from the work of this office.”
Alone was set up in 1977 by Dublin fireman Willie Bermingham to ease the plight of elderly people living in poor housing conditions.
The voluntary organisation provides food, clothing, fuel and other comforts for people over 60 who are unable to provide for themselves.
It also aims to provide shelter or accommodation on a temporary or permanent basis for such people.
Earlier this month Ms Foley warned all retailers in the country to display the prices of all consumer products or else run the risk of prosecution.
Her warning came after her inspectors found too few stores nationally were fully displaying the prices of sweets and chocolates.
