Irish publicans may be able to use cheap decoders to show English Premier League football matches following a UK court ruling that has wide implications for broadcasters and TV programme-makers.

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.

PUBLICANS have warned the Government that any tampering with drink-driving limits would accelerate further job losses in the industry.

THE Vintners’ Federation of Ireland has claimed thousands of jobs will be lost in the pub trade unless the Government matches the federation’s own efforts to cut costs.

By Eddie Cassidy

The Galway pub blatantly flouting the smoking ban was given an ultimatum tonight as Health Minister Micheál Martin vowed to crack down on any breaches of the new law.

A group representing publicans refused today to back a landlord’s decision to openly flout the smoking ban.

Carl O’Brien, Political Correspondent