The Green Party has criticised the Government following today's announcement that the rate of inflation has reached 5.2%, a five-and-a-half-year high.
"Today's increase, breaching the psychological 5% barrier, means that control of inflation must now go beyond being a matter of mild concern to being an issue of prime concern for the Government," said Green party finance spokesperson Dan Boyle TD.
"Traditionally, this is a period when inflation tends to head downwards when factors such as the January sales come into play. The fact that inflation is continuing to increase and is increasing significantly is a matter of serious concern."
Mr Boyle also warned that the upcoming election may create further problems.
"With the run in to the general election now in full swing, it is likely that the Government will, through its actions, create further inflationary pressures rather than seek to control inflation.
"In the coming months we are more likely to see more 'one for everyone in the audience' policy announcements from the Government rather than a reining in of inflation that threatens wage increases agreed under the Social Partnership agreement and an undermining of purchasing power of those dependent on social welfare payments."