Retailers throughout the State have today started receiving a euro conversion kit, ahead of the introduction of the new currency on January 1st next year.
The package - made available by Forfas the State enterprise and science agency - includes a euro calculator; a ready-reckoner giving the equivalent values of all present Irish money amounts from one pence to £250 in the new currency; a conversion chart; notes and coins for training; in-store display posters and a manual with training exercises.
Launching the conversion kit, the Tanaiste and Enterprise Trade and Employment Minister Ms Harney, said with only 81 days to go before the changeover, businesses had to make the moves necessary to ensure they were ready.
"Retailers and their staff have a fundamental role to play, not only in making the changeover to euro happen, but also in facilitating its acceptance by consumers.
"Staff will have to assist by dealing with queries and explaining the new currency, a conversion chart, notes and coins for training, in-store display posters and a manual complete with training exercises," she said.
Forfas chief executive Mr John Travers described its euro kit as "the most comprehensive resource to be developed as yet".
PA