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VFI Accuses Government of Deliberately Destroying the Pub Industry
23-June-2010
The Government is deliberately destroying the pub industry with over regulation through legislation such as the Road Traffic Bill 2009 (the “Bill”) which is currently at the Report Stage in Dáil Éireann according to the President of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (“VFI”), Gerry Mellett.
Mr. Mellett was speaking after the National Executive of the VFI met representatives of all political parties to discuss the Bill in Leinster House today.
“The pub industry throughout the country has been brought to its knees by severe over regulation in the last few years and the new blood alcohol limits will be the final nail in the coffin.
“We estimate that on average one pub a day is closing down and that 1,500 pubs have closed in the last five years. On this basis we anticipate that another 1,500 pubs will close over the next three years with the consequent loss of another 10,000 jobs in the industry.
“If action is not taken urgently to remedy the situation the whole industry as we know it will collapse with horrific consequences for the economy and for employment, in particular in the tourist and hospitality sectors.
“The Government’s approach to legislation has become too narrow minded and inflexible, with the result that the lives and the livelihood of people in towns, villages and communities throughout the country is being totally undermined.”
Mr. Mellett said, “Many TDs and Ministers appear to be indifferent to the consequences of such over legislation on their constituents and their communities, and they need to recognize the stark reality of the situation.
“While we do not condone drunk driving, in any fashion, the VFI at this late stage, is calling on the Government to soften the provisions of the Bill and to address and redress the issues of over regulation and the suffocation of businesses.”
Mr Mellett also said that, “the National Executive will be meeting shortly to agree a plan of campaign to protect the industry.”
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