A Kilkenny publican has been fined €2,500 and costs of more than €1,000 for watering down vodka.
Charles Malzard, the proprietor of Malzard's pub in Main Street, Stoneyford, was convicted by Judge William Harnett for engaging in a misleading commercial practice, prohibited by the Consumer Protection Act 2007, by adulterating vodka. The offence occurred on July 30th, 2007.
National Consumer Agency chief executive Ann Fitzgerald said the Consumer Protection Act 2007 has given the agency wide ranging powers to ensure traders meeting their legal obligations. These tools include both criminal and civil sanctions.
She said: “It is the intention of the Agency to maximise the use of these various tools to help bring about a robust consumer protection culture throughout the State.”
Mr Malzard was also ordered to pay costs of €363 and expenses of €818.
