Two publicans have been prosecuted for "watering down" drinks for sale on their premises, the Director of Consumer Affairs Ms Carmel Foley said.
Mr Kevin Kelly was convicted yesterday at Athenry District Court for selling "adulterated spirits" at his premises in Monivea, Co Galway. Vodka in his pub was found to contain 31.1 per cent alcohol by volume rather than 37.5 per cent as stated on the bottle.
Mr Kelly pleaded guilty to the offence and was fined €634 - the maximum penalty.
Mr Padraig Horkan was convicted of a similar offence on May 9th last in Swinford District Court, Co Mayo. In his case, gin was found to contain 35.8 per cent alcohol by volume, rather than 38 per cent as stated on the bottle. Mr Horkan pleaded guilty and was fined €500 and ordered to pay €500 costs.
Both cases came to light as a result of complaints to the Office of Consumer Affairs.