Alcohol sales are in fact up 11%.

  Minimum unit pricing for alcohol came into effect at the beginning of 2022. The decision was a controversial one, given the cost of living crisis; it was intended to curb consumption and binge drinking culture within Ireland. Despite best effort, according to The Irish Times, the minimum unit pricing for alcohol has done little to achieve this goal. In fact, take-home alcohol sales have actually gone up by 11% compared to pre-pandemic times. However more time is needed to fully grasp the effect of the minimum unit pricing legislation. Reports show that:

"Grocery sales in general remain higher than the comparative 2019 period, while inflationary pressures have led some people to drink at home rather than in bars and restaurants."

The Irish Times also reports that people are travelling to Northern Ireland to avail of cheaper alcohol. In the Republic of Ireland, "an average bottle of wine cannot be sold for less than €7.40, while a can of beer costs at least €1.70. The base price of spirits also increased, with bottles of vodka or gin costing a minimum of €20.70, and whiskey at least €22.09." Only time will tell if the legislation brought in can curb binge drinking and over-consumption in Ireland. Header image via Shutterstock READ ON: See t-rex, velociraptors and other dinos at Amber Springs Hotel this summer