Vintners oppose McDowell’s cafe bar plans

THE introduction of café bars in Ireland will do nothing to tackle the problem of binge drinking, according to a leading publicans’ organisation.

The Licensed Vintners’ Association, which represents over 750 pubs in the Dublin area, yesterday called on Justice Minister Michael McDowell to abandon his plans to legislate for continental-style outlets which offer a combination of food and drink. LVA chief executive, Donall O’Keeffe said publicans were supported in their opposition to the measure by numerous international and Irish studies which agreed that an increase in the number of pubs would result in further alcohol abuse.

Speaking at a press conference to promote the LVA’s submission on changes to pub legislation, Mr O’Keeffe questioned the purpose of the Government’s plans as he claimed the proposed café bars would be no different from existing small pubs.