Taoiseach leaves door open for cut in excise on alcohol 

Publicans want the cut as reduced Vat on hospitality does not apply to alcohol. But Alcohol Action Ireland says the value of excise duties has been eroded by inflation since 2014

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke is among the advocates of an excise cut, particularly as a measure to assist rural pubs which do not benefit from the reduced 9% Vat rate. Stock picture: PA

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has left the door open to a cut in excise on alcohol products just as Alcohol Action Ireland demands the Government raise minimum unit pricing in October’s budget.

Mr Martin said ministers had broadly discussed income tax issues ahead of the budget but have yet to formally begin talks on excise rates.