A branch of the Vintners' Federation of Ireland has resigned in protest at the Intoxicating Liquor Bill. The 100-strong Longford Vintners' Association and its representative on the national executive of the VFI, Mr P.V. Fallon, have decided to leave the organisation. They believe nightclub owners have too much influence on the federation, which, they say, should be dedicated solely to representing the views of publicans.
Vintners had made a submission to the Minister for Justice seeking an extension of serving time until 12.30 p.m., with half-an-hour drinking-up time. "The big winners are the nightclub owners who have their extensions legalised on a Saturday night," said Mr Tom Crosby, secretary of the Longford Vintners' Asssociation. "The Minister's decision is obviously a result of the tail wagging the dog."