Vintners unhappy at the upcoming pub smoking ban are proposing to field candidates in the European and local elections which take place next year.
Following a meeting of the Vintners Federation of Ireland's management committee it was decided to put the proposal to the VFI's National Executive Council.
VFI President Mr Joe Browne said the decision was not directly related to the smoking ban "but is in response to the growing level of repressive legislation evident in Ireland today."
"This is an attempt to re-introduce pro-choice and pro-freedom to the Government, as normal democracy appears to have become redundant", he said.
Mark Brennock, Chief Political Correspondent writes: The Minister for Health will sign regulations next week banning smoking in all workplaces, including pubs and restaurants, from January. This is despite fears of an escalating campaign by pub owners against the move.
Mr Martin last night refused to consider compromising on his proposals after robust meetings with publicans' representatives in Dublin.
The meetings, which had been due to take place next week, were brought forward by the Minister to end the uncertainty and get the regulations signed quickly.
Mr Martin briefed the Cabinet on the issue yesterday amid concern that the regulations should be signed next week to prevent the opposition to the ban from gaining momentum.
