Taoiseach launches attack on publicans

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has launched a scathing attack on the Vintners Federation of Ireland over its threat to withhold VAT payments in protest at the Government’s proposed smoking ban.

The VFI, which represents around 6,000 rural publicans, issued the threat yesterday as part of its campaign of opposition to the workplace smoking ban, due to come into effect on January 26.