Brexit could prompt comeback for duty free

Travelllers between the Republic and UK could see the return of duty free shopping following Brexit.

The EU ended the sale of tax-free alcohol, tobacco and perfume for those travelling between its member states in 1998.

However, there is speculation that it could be re-introduced between the Republic and UK as a result of the latter’s vote to leave the EU.

Asked if its return is likely, a spokesman for State-owned airport operator, DAA, said it may be re-introduced on flights to the UK following Brexit.

“However, any decision in relation to this issue will be made by the EU as part of the process of UK exit from the European Union, which could take two years,” he said.

The European Travel Retail Confederation sparked speculation about the return of duty free on Friday by pointing out that it intended to explore specific issues relating to the facility in coming months.

Difficulties

The organisation acknowledged that the travel and aviation industries face difficulties as a result of the vote.

Meanwhile, Europe's biggest airline, Ryanair, said that Britons were rushing to mop up seats offered in its post-Brexit sale.

The Irish carrier, which campaigned vocally for a remain vote, released one million seats for sale across Europe after the result was confirmed on Friday morning and saw a surge of purchases in Britain.

Spokesman Robin Kiely remarked that it was a good job the company was better at running and airline than political campaigns.

“Britons are booking our £9.99 seats in record numbers in what will be the last big seat sale of its kind, as they look to flee a country which will be run by Boris, Gove and Farage,” he said.