MAEVE O'HEALY-HARTE,
Sir, - There have been comments in the media recently regarding alleged abuse of the euro changeover by hairdressers.
Prior to the introduction of the euro, the Irish Hairdressers Federation became a signatory to the National Code of Euro Changeover, and recommended to all its members that no price increases take place before March 2002. For the most part this was respected. However, every sector has its mavericks and it is possible that there were some who took advantage of circumstances. The IHF considers that the profession in general has been honourable in relation to the euro changeover.
Hairdressing, like many other service sectors in the booming Irish economy, is fiercely competitive. As with all service sectors, the customer can choose the quality of service required. The more expensive salons would not remain in business if their customers did not think they were getting value for money. Irish customers are discerning enough to know the difference between price and value. - Yours, etc.,
MAEVE O'HEALY-HARTE, President, Irish Hairdressers Federation,
Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny.