Regulations 'holding back drinks industry', says report's author

A new report has highlighted the potential for growth in the drinks sector over the next 15 years.

The study by agri-food economist Ciaran Fitzgerald and commissioned by the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland said the indusrty could double exports to more than €2bn between now and 2030.

However, the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland said regulations in the sector, such as the commitment to responsible consumption, were holding the industry back.

Report author Ciaran Fitzgerald said it was about striking a balance between jobs and public health.

"With the highest excise duties and prices in Europe, you are penalising the 80% who are consuming the product responsibly on the basis that you're trying to have a disincentive for people who are not going to stop abusing the product," he said.

Conor Cullen from Alcohol Action Ireland has claimed the report is biased and overlooks the health implications of an expanded drinks industry in Ireland.

“Alcohol misuse costs the State €3.7bn every year, but more importantly than that it claims three lives every day in Ireland,” Mr Cullen said.