News
Campaigners fight to save the local pub
An all-out campaign has been launched by the drinks industry to help save hundreds of pubs and restaurants across County Galway which are faced with the threat of closure.
The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has called on the Government to introduce a ban on cheap drink in supermarkets and strict rules governing the advertising and display of alcohol.
The ‘Support Your Local’ campaign launched in Kiltullagh last night (Wednesday) heard there are more than 7,000 people in drinks-related employment in Galway.
And Tim Broderick, head of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland in Galway has called for a “re-focussing” on the local pub.
“The campaign is to increase awareness among people in Galway on just how much revenue and employment the drinks industry generates.
“There are more than 7,000 people working in pubs, restaurants and hotels in the city and county, with an annual wage bill of €160 million. The drinks-related manufacturing industry purchases €6m annually from Galway. Those figures are huge.
“This is about education, showing people that the local pub in many towns and villages is an important social outlet, it’s not just about enjoying a drink.”
See full story in this week’s Connacht Tribune.