Over the past four years, the courts have awarded €3.1 million to companies supplying services such as electricity, oil, gas and waste collection because consumers have failed to pay their bills.

The average amount awarded to Utilities companies last year was €1,800.

2011 also saw the Revenue Commissioners collect €70 million through the courts against Consumers in 1,300 actions for unpaid taxes.

Christine Cullen, Managing Director of Vision-net, said the figures show that last year had been a very challenging year for the economy, with about five companies collapsing each day.

The number of court actions taken by Utility Companies shows that consumers are struggling to pay their bills and, with the new household charge introduced this month, this trend is likely to worsen.

"Our figures also show that companies in the hospitality and construction sectors have been hardest hit as discretionary spending in the economy slows significantly and the property market continues to contract."

"Consumer sentiment remains weak as unemployment rises and salaries drop against continuing turbulence in the global economy", said Ms Cullen.