VFI calls for minimum price for alcohol

The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) today backed calls by Alcohol Action Ireland for a minimum price for alcohol, saying such a move would to help prevent alcohol abuse.

"We welcome this debate on alcohol pricing but driving up the price of drink across the board is not the answer," VFI president Gerry Mellet said.

"The focus must be on those who deliberately push down the price of drink such as the supermarkets that offer volume led promotions and sell alcohol like bananas or cornflakes on special offers which only encourages irresponsible consumption."

The VFI represents almost 4,500 pubs outside of Dublin.