Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 117: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will consider a reduction in the cost of a wine licence for small, convenience and grocery stores owing to the very modest turnover generated from such sales and in view of the fact that such small, local businesses are in competition with the large multiples who pay the exact same amount for such licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28781/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy will be aware the rate of excise duty on off-licences was reviewed in the context of the 2008 and 2009 Budgets. The annual excise duty payable on each off-licence was increased from €250 to €500. An off-licence for a shop selling only wine costs €500. An off-licence selling the full range of alcohol products require three licences - spirits, beer and wine. Consequently, supermarkets who wish to sell wine, beer and spirits must obtain Retailers Off Licences which cost €1,500 per annum. It is the general practice that excise duty on licences to trade are set at one rate and do not differentiate based on the volume or quantity of activity undertaken by the holder of the licence, except in the case of licences for public houses.