Boatyard Distillery in Co Fermanagh has won a landmark case against what it says are ‘archaic’ licensing laws preventing it from selling its products at the site.
The highly successful local distillery, which sits on the banks of Lower Lough Erne, had been unable to sell its gin and other drinks to visitors at the premises before the ruling.
Following a ruling at Dungannon Magistrates Court, the company says it is now the first distillery in Northern Ireland to gain access to a new type of licence that allows them to sell their own made products in the distillery.
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Boatyard founder Joe McGirr told MyFermanagh says most people visiting the distillery couldn’t understand why it was the case that they couldn’t do so before.
“The laws were very archaic and meant that we were unable to sell our produce to people,” Joe said.
“As we are in a rural setting, most people have travelled a very long way to come and see us to be told they cannot purchase.
“Most people don’t really understand this concept and it has traditionally been a challenge to try and explain.
“As a manufacturer we pride ourselves on the quality of our liquid and enjoy getting people to try and taste.”
The Co Fermanagh distiller added that the company wants to help make the county a welcoming place to visit for tourists, and the new laws will help with that.
“Fermanagh has so much to offer for tourists when they come to visit - from beautiful lakes to some of the best pubs and restaurants in Ireland.
“Our vision is to play an important part of that. We love to welcome people into our Fermanagh home”
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