VFI calls for 40% excise rebate on pints to support struggling rural pubs

VFI says smaller pubs struggling and desperately need support 

VFI president Michael O’Donovan (right) with Eamonn O’Rahilly and his wife, Audrey, from The Spotted Dog pub, Limerick. The VFI is calling for a 40% excise rebate for all draught products sold in the on-trade to support rural pubs facing unprecedented costs pressures.  Picture: Conor McCabe  

The Vinters Federation of Ireland has called for a 40% rebate in excise on pints of beer sold in pubs.

Earlier this month, figures from the CSO showed bar sales dropped 9.9% in the 12 months from March 2024. This was the largest annual drop in volume sales of any sector.