Almost two thirds of Irish consumers are concerned about the impact of prolonged pub closures on the local economy, according to new research from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI).
The research, released today as part of DIGI’s Support Your Local campaign, reveals that over half of pubs are reported temporarily or permanently closed (56%) as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.
Rosemary Garth, chair of DIGI and director of Communications and Corporate Affairs at Irish Distillers, commented: “The prolonged closure of pubs in Ireland is not only having a negative effect on those who are directly involved in the industry: it is having widespread impact on local communities."
"This is truly devastating to see. According to our research, the vast majority of people in Ireland have noticed significant change to their local community, with a particular decline in community spirits and morale," she added.
Broader Economy Impact
According to the research, almost six in ten people (59%) visited their local pub at least once a month before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the government implemented restrictions on the opening of pubs, half (53%) of those surveyed feel that the vibrancy of the community has dampened, the group said.
DIGI noted that half of the respondents said that they noticed a decrease in the level of community spirit and morale among the community.
“The role of the pub in local communities has never been more prominent. It is only now, as many pubs remain shut or have closed permanently as a result of the lockdown, that people are recognising how important the industry is for local wellbeing, job creation, and the broader economy," Garth added.
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