Drinks industry cheers own economic contribution

THE DRINKS industry yesterday launched an unapologetic assertion of its importance to Irish culture, sport, tourism and economic recovery.

Calling on the Government to “do no harm” in current budget preparations, the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) published a report detailing the contribution of the industry to the State’s tourism, festivals and sport.

Commissioned from Anthony Foley of the DCU business school, the report detailed support given by the industry to small and major sporting and cultural events. These include rugby, soccer and GAA fixtures, events such as the Jameson film festival and many others which which attract tourists to Ireland.

Mr Foley said the pub was a very important element of tourists’ interest in Ireland, coming in behind the scenery, friendliness and warmth of the people.

Some 800 festivals, horse races and other events were supported by the drinks industry and all promote Ireland in a positive light abroad “conveying an image of conviviality, pleasantness and hospitality”. But the contribution of the industry “tends to be unquantified and one could say unappreciated by Government”, he said.

IRFU chief executive Philip Browne welcomed the report and the support the drinks industry gives to sport. “It is a model that works very well,” he said.

DIGI chairman Kieran Tobin urged the Government not to increase taxes on “old reliables” and to “do no harm” in the budget.