Consumers face massive debts in spending spree hangover

CONSUMERS have racked up several thousands of euro in debts due to massive Christmas shopping sprees, financial experts said yesterday.

Those facing heavy debt loads have been urged by the Government to contact its money and budgeting advice service immediately.

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs Mary Coughlan warned that money problems will only get worse if people ignore them. She said the final two weeks of January are the busiest time of the year for the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), operated by her department from local social welfare offices.