Cahill supports call for emergency financial package for pubs

Deputy Jackie Cahill has expressed his frustration and disappointment at the decision to delay the reopening of rural pubs but has said that public health is paramount and the Government received the most comprehensive advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).

 

“I am disappointed, but more so I am disappointed for all the local publicans, their families and their employees. At the end of the day, these individuals went through the same hardship as every other business, but their woes are set continue.

 

"I have had numerous calls and visits from local publicans, who have expressed their fear that a further delay may be one delay too many. There were growing concerns within the Fianna Fáíl party, particularly from rural TDs, that the industry is facing a mountainous task to re-open," the Tipperary deputy said.

 

“The issue is that in other countries, evidence suggested the re-opening of pubs saw a spike in cases and clustered outbreaks. On the other hand, house parties have been linked to a spike here recently. Would re-opening pubs have countered this slightly? It is hard to tell. The publicans also make a good point that gastropubs are up and running which puts them at a distinct advantage. One can completely understand the frustrations of the sector and there are many questions to be answered.

 

“Regardless, we have to accept public health advice. These are the individuals we have praised and trusted throughout this tough journey to lead us through the biggest single health crisis this country has ever seen. And so, I trust them in their decision-making. Now, attention must turn to a financial package to save the sector. And I will do my utmost to secure an adequate fund that will ease the burden on publicans, just as I did working with the private bus and coach operators.

 

"I urge all publicans to approach me with their proposals and ideas while this package is being assembled. I will be calling for a meeting of the parliamentary party to discuss these proposals and I will raise them at the heart of government. I want publicans to know that I am here and I will do my best to help."