Local ‘a luxury many can no longer afford’

A decade ago, almost 50% of us made at least one trip to the pub each week, but new figures show that, in these recessionary times, “the local” is a luxury many can no longer afford.

A nationwide survey has found a “massive transition” in drinking attitudes as people forsake the atmosphere of the pub and either drink at home or entertain themselves in other ways.

The study by research company, Behaviour & Attitudes found in 2002, 42% of Irish adults were heading to the pub once or twice a week and a further 4% were going three or more times a week. A further 10% would go once a fortnight, while 8% would go at least every four weeks. Only 35% of those surveyed either did not go or went less than once a month.