Restaurants warned over price displays
Restaurants and cafes were warned today to display their prices at front doors or risk fines of €3,000.
Carmel Foley, Director of Consumer Affair, said inspectors would be returning to 25 eateries over the next few weeks which had failed to show prices at their entrances.
And the watchdog warned that continued non-compliance would leave owners at the mercy of the courts.
“Consumers have the right to know how much a meal is going to cost before deciding on a particular restaurant,” said Ms Foley.
“Simply having the prices shown on a menu at the table does not comply with the legal requirements of price display.”
Out of 190 premises inspected in September 13% were not displaying prices at the front doors.
Ms Foley warned that over the next two and half months, as restaurants battle for extra business from Christmas parties, inspectors would be on the streets to ensure prices were displayed.
“The up-coming Christmas period, when millions of euro will be spent in restaurants, will be an important time for consumers to be active in protecting their rights,” she said.
The ODCA has also set up a helpline for consumers wishing to report non-compliant restaurants on 01 4025555 or lo call 1890220229.
