I did some checking before Christmas and found prices in south were generally a good bit cheaper that the North even with currency at €1.10 at the time. Currency is now at €1.20 (inc exchange rate commission), so I can't see where any value will be had. Also most of the furniture places are just branches of UK chains that are way way way overprice junk in general.
One of the few independent places with good selection is Dalzells in Markethill - but Homeline furniture , online but based in Clonmel came in a good bit cheaper for identical products.