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.

Responding to the threat today, Mr Ahern severely criticised the publicans and claimed the proposed smoking ban would increase their profits, "even though most of them are making too much anyway".

The VFI has claimed that the ban will lead to a 30% drop in business and tens of thousands of job losses.