The Clare VFI chair fears more pub closures will happen unless long-awaited legislation addresses the “crisis” in the sector.
The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland and the Licensed Vintners Federation are calling on the Government to finally implement the Sale of Alcohol Bill which was first tabled in October 2022 and would see, among other measures, the standardisation of opening hours of pubs.
Recent analysis by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland shows the number of Irish pubs is down 22.5% since 2005, with an average of 114 pubs each year closing their doors.
Charlie O’Meara, who runs O’Dea’s Pub in Ennis, says time is of the essence for struggling publicans.
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