Following a price increase of 12 cents back in February, Diageo is raising the price of its stout and lager goods by 4 cents.

The price of Guinness is rising by 10 to 15 cents on average.

It will have an impact on beverages including Carlsberg, Smithwick's, Rockshore, Harp, and Hop House 13.

However, the Vintners Federation of Ireland has stated that the price hike is “deeply unfair to both consumers and publicans” and that it is “poorly timed and due to business costs.”

Some bars in rural communities, according to independent Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae, are already having trouble staying in business.

“Rural pubs are finding it difficult enough to keep their doors open and keep customers coming into them,” Mr. Healy-Rae said on Newstalk. I disagree with the timing chosen by the beverage corporations, and the bartenders themselves disagree with it.

“So, I believe we should be doing everything we can to keep the price of alcohol down. This is bad timing by the drinks companies to increase the cost of drink,” said the business owner.