I have met with Padraic McGann, National President of the Vintners Federation to discuss issues around the re-opening of pubs.
‘The main issue is that the regulations are very complicated and require clarity to ensure a safe opening’.
Many rural pubs are concerned that the cost of putting the restrictions in place will increase staffing levels. This could make their business unviable.
‘I discussed the issue of further financial supports for the pubs to help them in their attempts to get back to being viable’.
‘The small rural pub deserves the support as they face into the winter months which is normally a quiet time for trade’.
‘I will work with the VFI to try to support their members over the next few months. We need to open the pubs in a safe manner and as they provide a very important social outlet in communities and they need our support’.