Ireland officially has the highest price levels for alcohol and tobacco in the European Union. Eurostat says Irish prices for these products are 178% more than the EU average.

The figures show that overall consumer prices in Ireland were fifth highest in the EU at 118% of the average.

Prices were highest in Denmark followed by Sweden, Luxembourg and Finland. While average prices were lowest in Hungary, Poland, Romania and Bulgaria.

Food and non-alcoholic drinks were also above average in Ireland at 117% of the average - but well below Denmark, in top place at 140% of the average.

Poland had the lowest prices at 62% of the average.

The cost of restaurants and hotels in Ireland was also well above the average at 128%.

Prices for consumer electronic and personal transport equipment here were also more than the EU average at 105% and 111% respectively.

Clothing in Ireland - at 98% - was the only area where prices were below average.