A Longford publican is calling for substantive supports to be allocated to the pub sector in next week's Budget.
Gerry Lynn says he fears reduced footfall and rising energy costs will force some bars out of business.
A new consumer pulse survey reveals four in ten adults are planning fewer visits to the pub this winter due to cost of living concerns.
The Longford Vintners representative has seen a doubling of his electricity costs in recent months and he believes the Government must provide a package in the Budget for publicans to ensure they survive.
"At this stage we're heading into a winter where no-one knows what's coming to happen. Our costs have literally doubled but we're no different to any other small business. In rural Ireland we're all in the same boat. There needs to be some sort of break whether that be the likes of CRSS during COVID, just some sort of help for the next 5 or 6 months. If we don't get that there will be doors closing".
