Cost of alcohol to rise as minister seeks approval for minimum pricing

The Public Health (Alcohol) Act specifies a minimum price per gram of alcohol of 10c, sparking fears retailers in border counties will lose out as consumers flock to the North, which has delayed minimum pricing legislation

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly will seek Government approval on Tuesday for the proposed implementation of minimum pricing for alcohol.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly will seek Government approval on Tuesday for the proposed implementation of minimum pricing for alcohol – a move that would increase the price of a bottle of vodka by up to €7. 

The Public Health (Alcohol) Act specifies a minimum price per gram of alcohol of 10c, with the minister keen to have the scheme implemented in the coming months.