The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland is calling for alcohol duties to be cut by 15% to help ease the impact of the cost-of-living crisis after Covid.
Pub owners nationwide have reported a fall in profits due to the rising cost of fuel and fewer customers.
The Irish Mail on Sunday reports that the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, which represents 4,000 pub owners, is seeking two tax cuts of 7.5% on excise duties on alcohol.
In the wake of Covid-19, the organisation says that pubs have been seriously affected by energy costs which could have a knock-on affect on staff and opening hours.
Some 1,800 pubs shut their doors between 2005 and the end of 2021, including 26.3% of pubs in Donegal.
Chief Executive of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland Paul Clancy told the Irish Mail on Sunday that the government has the authority to alter excise rates on alcohol to support the sector.