Call for VAT reduction on alcohol

Alcohol groups are calling for the VAT rate on drinks to be cut from 23% to 9% for six months.

Drinks Industry Ireland and pub trade groups say it would be a "targeted measure" - badly needed by the 60% of pubs outside Dublin it says still haven't opened up again. 

Figures prepared by those calling for the measure say it would cost €143m over six months. 

Patricia Callan, director of Drinks Industry Ireland, says pubs are only likely to do half as much business as last year between now and Christmas - press PLAY