Jim Higgins
Question:19 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Taoiseach the cost of a basket of essential food in April 1999, April 2000 and April 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13498/01]
Written Answers. - Food Prices.
The precise information requested by the Deputy is not available. According to the 1994-95 household budget survey the average household spent £70.75 per week on all food items. Using the trends in the price of food items, as measured by the consumer price index, it is estimated that corresponding food baskets would cost £79.97 in April 1999, £81.85 in April 2000 and £88.15 in April 2001. This approach makes no allowance for changes in either the volume or pattern of food consumption in households since 1994-95.