‘PUBS AS COMMUNITY HUBS’ PILOT LAUNCHED

A new initiative designed to support rural pubs and communities, ‘Pubs as Community Hubs’, was launched last Friday by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD.

Rolled out on a pilot basis and modelled on a similar scheme in the UK, the initiative will see financial supports provided to publicans in rural areas to diversify their facilities for community use.

‘Pubs as Community Hubs’ is designed to utilise pubs during quiet trading times into the likes of digital hubs, community cinemas, book clubs, arts and crafts workshops and community meeting spaces.

Funding of €50,000 has been provided to the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI), which will select five pubs in Cork, Cavan, Kerry, Donegal and Clare as part of the pilot programme.

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CEO of Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, Padraig Cribben welcomed the initiative.

“Pubs are a vital part of Irish life but as local communities evolve it’s more important than ever to understand how our pubs can continue to enhance their offering to the villages and towns they serve. Upon completion these pilot projects will offer a roadmap for our members as they navigate the coming challenges and opportunities faced by the rural hospitality sector.”

The initiative, which was a commitment under ‘Our Rural Future’ is set to be expanded to other parts of the country if the pilot is a success.