Retailers in Ireland are to come under the Government spotlight in a new Eurozone price study announced today.
The move follows a number of surveys since the introduction of the euro which have highlighted significant differences in the price of identical goods between the twelve Eurozone countries.
"The floodlights are now sharply focused on prices throughout the length and breath of the Eurozone and any retailer who thinks he or she can exploit the consumer will have nowhere to hide", Minister for Consumer Affairs Mr Tom Kitt said this morning.
The price study will be carried out by Forás in consultation with other relevant bodies including the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs.
A report in the Sunday Business Post this morning suggest that Irish consumers are paying higher prices for computer accessories, fuel, designer goods, sports equipment and consumer electronics than in other European countries.