Consumers struggle as inflation soars 3%

PRICES have risen the most in three years as consumers were forced to shell out more for food and clothes.

The price of petrol, shoes and insurance also rose last month at a time when many consumers are struggling to make ends meet.

Figures from the Central Statistics Office showed that the cost of living has soared 3% in the last year. Last month it was up 0.9% — the last time there was such a large hike was in March 2008.