Microbrewery tax break to get the beer flowing

The tax break for microbreweries in Budget 2015 will encourage these small enterprises, which are springing up across the country.

Speaking after opening the Wicklow Brewery at Mickey Finn’s Pub in Redcross, Co Wicklow, Fine Gael TD Andrew Doyle said: “Microbreweries are becoming both popular and profitable and are now being encouraged by Government.

“In Budget 2015, Finance Minister Michael Noonan increased from 20,000 to 30,000 hectolitres the quantity of craft beer needed to qualify for a 50% excise duty reduction. This is a clear sign of the Government’s commitment to encouraging small businesses who want to create a new enterprise.

“The beauty about this type of enterprise is that ‘small is beautiful’, given the novelty factor and the location, often in remote parts of the country.

The Wicklow Brewery was the brainchild of Ashley and Leigh Williams.

They have developed their microbrewery, building on an existing tourist product which includes a caravan park, a pub, and other attractions in Redcross, a small village close to the N11.

The brewery itself is incorporated into a bar within the pub where customers can see first-hand the brewing process taking place.