Irish food prices second most expensive in EU

HARD-PRESSED Irish shoppers are paying some of the highest prices in Europe at a time when their household budgets have never been more strained.

A Europe-wide survey yesterday revealed Ireland is the second most expensive country in which to buy food and non-alcoholic beverages, the third most expensive for restaurants and hotels and by far the most costly for alcohol and cigarettes.

A food basket here costs 20% more than the average across Europe, restaurants and hotels costs 29% more, and drink and cigarettes 70% more. We’re also 16% more expensive for cars and car parts.