DIGI figures reveal 34% drop in pub sales

Pub sales have fallen by 34% since pre-recession levels, according to the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland.

Half-year figures reveal a drop of 8.2% so far this year, compared to the same period last year.

DIGI said the industry supports 54,000 jobs in pubs, hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants around the country.

As a result, it is calling on the Government to maintain excise duties at their current rates and not raise them on budget day.