VFI disappointed at Govt failure to lower tax on alcohol
The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland has expressed disappointment at the failure of the Minister for Finance to reduce the excise duties on alcohol.
Paul Stevenson, president of the VFI, reacted by saying that it would appear that this decision will further undermine Ireland’s competitiveness.
The VFI had called for a reduction in Ireland’s excessive tax regime to help bring us in line with our EU neighbours.
"It would appear that this Government is determined to ignore the seriousness of the situation and as a result competitiveness goes out the window.
"Ireland’s wine and beer tax is already the highest in the EU, and spirits tax the second highest. Our excise duties are extortionate compared to our EU neighbours."
"Excise duty on beer is ten times that of Germany, seven times higher than France while tax on spirits is five times greater than Italy.
"Contrary to popular belief, most price increases are beyond the control of the publican, the Government must play its part to enable a significant reduction to be introduced," concluded Mr. Stevenson.
