Ireland–Britain food price disparities
The Minister cited a 1985 survey finding Irish grocery prices averaged 2.2% above Northern Ireland and 6.5% above England, largely due to distribution costs, and said he had no evidence of inordinate disparities. Keating cited a later Consumers Association study reporting a 30% gap; the Minister agreed to discuss it with the Association and report back, noting VAT and inflation differences.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will order an inquiry into the inordinate price disparities regarding foodstuffs which exist between Ireland and Great Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Comment on this
The National Prices Commission carried out a grocery price comparison survey between Ireland and the UK in April 1985. The results of that survey indicated that tax inclusive Irish prices were only 2.2 per cent and 6.5 per cent higher, on average, than Northern Ireland and English prices respectively. The somewhat higher Irish prices arose mainly from additional distribution costs arising in Ireland.
There is no evidence available to me to suggest that there are currently inordinate disparities in regard to the price of foodstuffs as between Ireland and Great Britain, or other circumstances which would justify the holding of an inquiry into the matter.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware that research was carried out under the auspices of the Consumers Association of Ireland, the representative body for consumers? I gather it has been carried out since the date of the NPC inquiry. It showed in round figures a disparity, after tax and other deductions, of 30 per cent in relation to a significant range of foodstuffs. In view of the clear conflict with what he said, perhaps the Minister will meet with the Consumers Association of Ireland to discuss that matter because that is what they say. Obviously, I do not know what areas were examined by the NPC. The Consumers Association of Ireland are a body of integrity and I wonder if the Minister will meet with them to discuss what is, from their point of view——
Comment on this
I am meeting the Consumers Association of Ireland between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. this afternoon and I will discuss that matter with them. I would remind the Deputy that the VAT differentials and the inflation rates that existed all have a bearing on food prices both in Dublin and in the North of Ireland. I will go into that matter in detail with the Consumers Association of Ireland whom I expect to meet this afternoon.
Comment on this
Will the Minister be kind enough to come back to me in due course to let me know what enlightenment or otherwise he has gleaned from that meeting.