Retailers in Ireland are being called to pass on oil price reductions to customers.

Labour Senator Lorraine Higgins said customers must "reap the benefit" of the price of oil, which is at its lowest level.

Senator Higgins said: :As it stands, Irish motorists face some of the highest petrol prices in the world, while the cost of household and business energy supply has risen significantly since 2007. Despite the global price of oil plummeting between July and November of this year, as yet, this has not been reflected in Irish pricing.

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"The slump in oil prices has benefited consumers in the UK, where petrol has dipped to its lowest price since January 2011. It is my contention that Irish consumers deserve to experience similar benefits. It is unfair of companies not to pass on these savings, particularly at this time of year when people are facing increased fuel costs as winter progresses."

Senator Higgins also confirmed she will be writing to petrol firms in Ireland to ensure they are fully aware of her concerns.

(CD/MH)