Three out of five independent off-licences 'facing closure'

Almost 60% of independent off-licences across Ireland face the risk of closure in 2015, it has been claimed.

The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has released figures from its 2014 member's survey as part of its 2015 pre-Budget submission.

Some 48% of respondents to the survey reported a decrease in turnover in 2013.

NOffLA has called on the Government to reverse the consecutive excise duty increases introduced in Budget 2013 and 2014 and to introduce measures to stop the sale of below-cost alcohol.

"The results of the 2014 member’s survey starkly illustrate the impact of current Government policy and how it is leading to the destruction of local businesses all across the country," said Evelyn Jones, Chairperson NOffLA.

"Increasing excise duty does not discourage alcohol consumption, rather it contributes to unemployment, promotes criminal activity and removes all public health controls.

"We are calling on the Government to reintroduce a ban on below cost selling of alcohol and provide security to the 92,000 jobs associated with the alcohol industry while ensuring a more effective means of reducing alcohol consumption”.