Alcohol consumption in Ireland drops 4.5%
The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) is calling for a 10% cut on alcohol excise after consumption levels in Ireland fell by 4.5% last year.
A report, authored by economist Anthony Foley and commissioned by DIGI, revealed adults in Ireland consumed 4.49 litres of alcohol on average last year, down by 4.5% on the previous year’s figure, and by 34.3% since 2001.
Beer reigns supreme as Ireland’s most popular alcoholic drink, followed by wine.
Spirits, meanwhile, have a 22.3% market share of alcohol consumption in Ireland, which 0.4% lower compared with the previous year.
DIGI said the results showed an increase in moderation regarding how Ireland’s population consumes alcohol.
It also said Ireland’s alcohol consumption was in line with the average levels stated by the European Union or OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) standards.
In a statement, secretary of DIGI and CEO of The Licensed Vintners Association, Donall O’Keefe said: “Today’s figures offer clear proof of what many of us already know – Irish people are increasingly drinking in a restrained manner, with consumption continuing the downward trajectory that has been recorded since the millennium.
“In contrast to the negative stereotypes that once existed, alcohol consumption in Ireland is now at average European levels, with the purchase of non-alcoholic drinks continuing to increase.
“This downward trend also raises the obvious question as to why Ireland continues to have the second highest excise rates on alcohol in Europe. Given that we now consume alcohol at average European levels it makes sense that we should pay excise at average European levels also.
“This is particularly true following the introduction of minimum unit pricing which prevents the sale of strong alcohol at low prices in supermarkets and shops.”
Calls for lower excise rates on alcohol
DIGI has been calling for Ireland’s tax rate on alcohol to be reduced, which is the second highest for beer in Europe and the third highest for spirits.
O-Keefe hopes the industry will see a 10% cut in this year’s budget.
He added: “Across Ireland, hundreds of small rural pubs and restaurants are struggling for survival due to repeated increases in the cost of doing businesses, including staff, energy and insurance.
“A cut in excise would offer these businesses an opportunity to continue acting as vital hubs in their communities, as well as a crucial part of our tourism product.
“DIGI will be seeking a 10% cut in excise in this year’s Budget as an urgent measure to give these businesses a fighting chance of survival.”
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