Exorbitant costs for non-alcoholic drinks in pubs

I READ with interest Jimmy Woulfe’s article concerning the downturn in trade in Limerick pubs (Irish Examiner, January 12).

There is no doubt people now frequent these premises less than before and, yes, random breath-testing and to a lesser extent the smoking ban have contributed.

Mr Hickey of the VFI is trying to get the support of the ICA and IFA in his efforts “to try and fight pub closures in country areas” and will also seek to make this a general election issue. He is even concerned for the well-being of those of us who might wish to drink at home — very touching indeed.