"We are almost certainly looking at the permanent closure of many more pubs."

  New studies show that more than 4 in 10 Irish pub-goers are expected to adjust their habits in light of the cost of living crisis. The Curren Goodden Associates, or CGA, carried out a survey across Ireland and the UK that discovered that 42% of Irish adults plan to visit hospitality venues less often than they did previously between now and the end of the year. Given that 7,000 Irish pubs are hugely energy reliant, CEO of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, Paul Clancy is calling for urgent and substantive energy supports for the pub trade in Budget 2023. [caption id="attachment_107130" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Vintners’ Federation of Ireland CEO Paul Clancy has called for urgent and substantive energy supports for the pub trade in Budget 2023. Pic: VFI/Mediaconsult.[/caption]   He said this of the data:

“The survey findings paint a bleak future for the pubs of Ireland, their staff and the communities where they often provide a vital social hub. “With 42% of pub-goers expected to curtail visits due to cost of living pressures, it is vital that Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe provides urgent and substantive energy supports to the pub trade in Budget 2023. “Pubs cannot pass on increases to customers already under financial strain and colossal energy costs are going to force pubs to close, or reduce their winter opening times. “Reduced footfall, coupled with an unprecedented rise in energy costs after 22 months of Covid lockdown closures and restrictions, means we are almost certainly looking at the permanent closure of many more pubs.”

The survey also found that 93% of those who took part anticipate spending more on household goods in the coming months. While these statistics are worrying, the survey found that 69% of people agreed that eating and drinking out is a treat they look forward to. Header image via Shutterstock READ ON: Councillor calls on Donegal to ignore request to fly flag half mast for royal funeral