The cost of electricity is likely to be high on the agenda at the first all-Ireland conference for the textile and apparel industries, which opens today in Belfast, writes Eddie O'Gorman.

One of the factors putting clothing and textile firms under increasing pressure is the cost of electricity. The average company's energy bill has risen rapidly in recent weeks, and companies are finding it increasingly difficult to absorb the increases.

The contrast between prices in Northern Ireland, and those in the Republic - where electricity prices have been capped - means that the difference in prices for companies on either side of the Border can vary by 60 per cent.

The Northern Ireland electricity regulator, Mr Douglas McIldoon, says the situation is exacerbated by Northern Ireland having the most inefficient electricity industry in western Europe.