Labour’s Alan Kelly has introduced a Bill which he says is aimed at boosting craft beer tourism in Ireland.
The Tipperary TD says the Intoxicating Liquor (Breweries and Distilleries) Bill 2016, would allow breweries, microbreweries, cider makers and distilleries to sell their own produce to tourists and other visitors on-site.
At present this is not allowed unless the premises has a pub license or an off-license. Deputy Kelly believes this is hampering the industry which is expanding considerably at the moment. He also asked what the case would be if Italy, France or Spain prevented tourists who visit vineyards from purchasing at the end of their tour.
The bill includes safeguards such as time restrictions of between 10am and 6pm for sales, and fines to ensure owners don’t sell alcohol that is not brewed on site.
