Beamish welcomes rise in 'alcopops' prices

Alf Smiddy, managing director of Beamish and Crawford, has reacted positively to the increases in spirit and 'alcopop' prices, welcoming the minister's decision not to increase the price of beer.

Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevy today announced no increase in the excise duty on beer, while spirits were increased by 20c per measure and the duty on spirit-based 'alcopops' is being increased to the full spirit rate.