Kilkenny TD backs Pat Crotty's call for Budget measures to protect Ireland's pubs
John McGuinness has pledged his support for measures following a meeting with VFI Chief Executive and Kilkenny native Pat Crotty
Carlow-Kilkenny TD and Leas-Cheann Comhairle John McGuinness has pledged his support for measures aimed at safeguarding the future of Ireland's pubs following a meeting in Dáil Éireann with Vintners' Federation of Ireland (VFI) Chief Executive and Kilkenny native, Pat Crotty.
The meeting focused on the VFI's Pre-Budget 2027 submission, "Saving More Than Businesses: Securing the Future of Ireland's Pubs", which calls for the introduction of a new On-Trade Sustainability Scheme to help pubs cope with escalating business costs and ensure their long-term viability.
Deputy McGuinness said the concerns raised by publicans, particularly in rural Ireland, are both genuine and urgent.
"Pubs are much more than commercial enterprises,” he said.“They are at the heart of communities, providing places where people can meet, socialise, celebrate milestones and maintain social connections. In many rural areas, the local pub is one of the last remaining gathering places and plays a vital role in combating isolation and sustaining community life."
The VFI proposal seeks the introduction of a targeted tax credit of €20 per 50-litre keg of draught beer or cider purchased, capped at €20,000 per pub annually. The Federation estimates the scheme would cost approximately €75 million per year and argues that it would provide meaningful support to pubs that do not benefit from the reduced 9% VAT rate because they do not serve hot food.
Deputy McGuinness noted that the sector continues to face severe pressures arising from rising costs.
"The figures outlined by the VFI are stark. Since 2005, more than 2,200 pubs have closed across the country, with closures continuing at an alarming rate. At the same time, publicans are dealing with significant increases in electricity, wage and water costs. Many family-run businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to remain viable."
Following his discussions with Mr Crotty, Deputy McGuinness raised the matter directly with Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris, urging the Government to give serious consideration to the VFI's proposals as part of Budget 2027 deliberations.
"I have brought these concerns to the attention of the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance because I believe there is a strong case for targeted intervention. Pubs support employment, tourism and local economies, but they also provide an important social function that cannot be measured solely in economic terms."
Deputy McGuinness said Government policy should recognise the unique contribution pubs make to Irish society.
"If we continue to lose pubs, particularly in rural communities, we risk losing an important part of Ireland's social fabric. The VFI proposal offers a practical and targeted way of supporting the sector, and I will continue to engage with Government on this issue in the lead-up to Budget 2027."
Pat Crotty welcomed Deputy McGuinness's engagement with the issue and his willingness to bring the concerns of publicans directly to Government. The VFI submission argues that pubs should be recognised as essential community infrastructure, supporting local employment, tourism, social wellbeing and resilience within towns and villages throughout Ireland.