Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 20 Feb 2001

Vol. 530 No. 6

Written Answers. - Drink Prices.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

101 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in relation to the Government strategy on drink prices, she will highlight the fact that many publicans, particularly in rural areas, have not increased the price of drink to the levels referred to in the media and that charges as low as £2.10 to £2.23 for a pint in rural Ireland is normal; whether the current strategy appears to treat all publicans in a similar fashion; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that there are many publicans who are finding it extremely difficult to make a living in small towns and rural areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4524/01]

Not all publicans have acted responsibly following the expiry of the drinks prices order. I have acknowledged that many publicans in rural areas have acted in a reasonable manner and would urge them to continue to do so. As I have already informed the House, I am closely monitoring the situation, and I will not hesitate to take any action which appears appropriate in the light of developments.

Barr
Roinn