Henry heads ‘Support Your Local’ campaign
The campaign is designed to raise awareness of the important contribution that Ireland’s drinks businesses —including distilleries, pubs, off-licences, breweries, hotels and restaurants — make to the Irish economy, society and culture.
The Story of Us video looks at the people behind the industry and showcases a day in the life of those working in one of Ireland’s most valued and renowned sectors.
In the video Henry describes his career to date, his life at Midleton and the innovative nature of the drinks industry.
He joined the Jameson Graduate Distiller Programme, Irish Distillers’ two-year graduate course, in 2016. As the new distiller at the Midleton Micro Distillery he oversees day-to-day operations and works with Irish Distillers’ Master Distiller to oversee the production of innovative and experimental new whiskeys.
“In a way, I’ve grown up in the drinks industry and from my perspective it has really evolved in the past five years,” he said, “Today, it’s a key part of the Irish economy, employing thousands of people in every county in Ireland.”
Ireland’s booming drinks industry under threat
As the drinks market matures, international competition increases. Brexit and possible trade barriers threaten free trade with our key markets, commented Rosemary Garth, Communications and Corporate Affairs Director at Irish Distillers and DIGI chairperson, ”…and our high excise tax is an additional barrier for Irish drinks businesses to overcome,” she added.
“DIGI is calling on the Irish Government to reduce alcohol excise tax in the forthcoming Budget 2019. This, we believe, will act as a defensive measure against internal and external challenges, allowing drinks businesses to invest more in growth and create jobs.”