Call to support rural Laois pubs

Laois Councillors called for support for rural pubs as 50 pubs have shut in Laois since 2006.

Independent Councillor Ollie Clooney called for support for the pubs which he said do more than just serve drink. 

He tabled a motion asking: "That Laois County Council contact the Minister for Finance, Mr. Michael McGrath, for financial support for all rural pubs as they provide a vital outlet for rural people."

“A local pub does a lot more than just serving drink,” Cllr Clooney told the monthly meeting of Laois County Council. 

He said they are social centres in communities and can be good for young people who need to talk. 

“Over 50 pubs in Laois have gone to the wall since 2006,” Cllr Clooney said. 

He said the county has a renewed focus on tourism but he asked where will the tourists go without pubs. 

Cllr Clooney said for every €7 spent in a pub, €2.11 cent “goes directly to the government” and then there is rising energy and staff costs as well as insurance and rates.

Independent Cllr James Kelly said he fully supported the motion. 

“I was born and brought up in a pub and that pub is gone now,” he explained. 

He recalled a time when there were 22 pubs in Mountrath and says there are just three there now.  He said there is just one pub in Borris-in-Ossory. He said there were rising costs but claimed tax was the biggest challenge.  He noted Ireland has the second highest excise duty for beer. 

Cllr Kelly said pubs reduce the risk of isolation in rural communities. 

Fine Gael Cllr John King said the pub closures are a huge loss to areas. He said rural life has changed greatly in recent years. 

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The council members agreed to write to the Minister to seek assistance for pubs.