Clare VFI Chair Claims Latest Pint Price Increase Is Another Nail In The Publican's Coffin

The Clare Chair of the Irish Vintner's Federation has described the latest increase to pint prices announced by a major supplier as another nail in the industry's coffin. British multinational firm Diageo,will impose a 4-cent rise to all alcoholic beverages in its range from August 1st. The additional charge will bring the company's total price hikes to 17-cent this year and will coincide with the expected reinstatement of the 13.5% hospitality VAT rate. Ennis Publican Charlie O'Meara believes the mounting operating costs will leave many local merchants on the verge of closure.