There has been a fresh call for a reduction in the amount of excise charged on bottles of wine.

It has come from the National Off-Licence Association, which has published its pre-budget submission.

Wine drinkers in Ireland pay 624% more excise than their European neighbours.

The group wants the rate cut to support small businesses around the country.

Chairperson Evelyn Jones believes wine is unfairly targeted on the issue.

She told Newstalk Breakfast the level of excise ends up affecting the quality of cheaper wine here.

While Dr Orla Crosbie, consultant hepatologist at Cork University Hospital, says a reduction is price could be harmful.