The Vintners Federation of Ireland says the new funding will support pubs that serve as important hubs in communities across the country
VFI welcomes €15m Budget support package for rural pubs
THE Rathfarnham-headquartered Vintners Federation of Ireland welcomed the €15 million package to support rural pubs included in Budget 2027 and labelled it “a significant step forward.”
The VFI, based out of VFI House on Castleside Drive, responded after the release of Budget 2027, which included an eight-figure support for rural pubs.
A report from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland via economist Anthony Foley published last month highlighted the closure of 2,205 pubs in the last 20 years.
VFI CEO Pat Crotty stated that the package is “a great starting point” for establishments “at the heart of communities.”
Mr Crotty said: “We welcome this support for rural pubs. €15m in support is a great starting point and we will work with it. We look forward to working with Government to make sure the support is delivered in the most effective way possible.
“We have been making the case throughout this campaign that pubs are more than just businesses. They are at the heart of communities across Ireland, supporting local employment, tourism, and acting as a social anchor in our towns and villages…
“…This is a significant step forward and will give many publicans greater confidence in the future of their businesses.”
The Chief Executive of the trade association of publicans added that increases in costs, including the rise in minimum wage, will mean supports like the package for pubs is welcome.
Tánaiste Simon Harris TD echoed a similar point that pubs are central to communities when announcing the budget and that support for them “keeps an important part of rural life alive.”
Tánaiste Harris said: “Rural pubs are at the heart of many local communities. They often provide a place where families, friends and neighbours can come together.
“Supporting the local pub helps keep an important part of rural life alive, while also supporting local jobs and the wider economy.
“They are also key small and medium businesses, hiring thousands of people cumulatively across this country, including many young people.”
