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EVERY BUDGET THAT rolls by seems to have some form of tax increase on alcohol. In 1984, it seemed it was no different. However, Ireland was in the midst of a bad recession.
With emigration on the rise and unemployment high, the Government were concerned about the dropping revenue in alcohol consumption.
They questioned why revenue was going down, stating that the prices in Northern Ireland could have something to do with it. However, when it came down to it, it concluded that it was simply down to the recession and no one having any cash to splash on nights out in the pub.
Tax increase
A Budget statement dated 25 January 1984, released under the 30 year rule, shows that the Government said the “scope for [tax] increases is severely limited”.
However, despite acknowledging that times were tough for people, it stated “a modest increase can still be applied” adding 2p per pint, 8p per bottle of wine and 10p on a pack of cigarettes.
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Not one of our governments in this country has ever understood that by reducing tax, more people can afford to spend money and they will spend it, boosting revenue. All Irish politicians understand is tax, tax, tax
The point of diminishing returns is well known by the government
Dean its a mixture of keynesian economics and their own relative stupidity.
“Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.”
Ronald Reagan
They’ve made up for it since!
How little has changed. Still kick the public when they’re down.
Reagan was drinking a pint of Smithwicks, not a glass of stout
He wouldn’t have know the difference!
there was a little more to it than that. Inflation was out of control in 1984 and adding duties to the old reliables was seen as unhelpful. They went ahead with it anyway.
Anybody know the price of pack of twenty in 1984
75p I think!
Havent a clue … I always buy mine from Dave …
cant beat the ould black market!
10p on 75p is a bit stiff, it would be like adding 1.40 on to a pack today
Or a euro on a 2.20 € bus fare.
They weren’t scared about crucifying the self employed then with a high tax rate?
Irish governments in the last 10 years just live tax whether you have money or not. Probably the worst Republic in the world.
love tax ;)
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