‘Devastated’ butcher calls for more help for SMEs as ends family trade of 138 years

A fifth-generation butcher, who is also a government party councillor, ceased trading last night — ending his family’s almost 140-year involvement in the trade.

Fine Gael Cork city councillor Des Cahill, who ran Cahill’s Butchers in Ballintemple, Cork, said he was devastated by the decision, but had no option.

“It’s been 23 years of my life. The last three years have been just awful. I am shattered and devastated — there is something surreal about the whole thing. But you have to take account of the economic realities and not be emotional about it. A tough financial week reduces your emotional attachment.