Fury at wine licence hike

RESTAURANT owners and retailers say a significant rise in licence fees for selling wine – due to kick in at the end of next month – will cripple recession-hit businesses.

Licences for selling wine are being increased from €300 to €500. When other rates and local levies are added on, owners say some premises will struggle to keep their doors open.

The Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI) yesterday called on Finance Minister Brian Lenihan to reverse the hike, which was decided in the last budget.