New scheme planned to help rural publicans

A new scheme to help rural pubs hit by stricter drink-driving laws could be introduced in the next few months.

Minister for Rural Affairs Eamon Ó Cuív has said the Government will be introducing the measure before the next general election.

Publicans in isolated areas have been complaining about a loss in business since the introduction of mandatory breath-testing last year and are calling for the establishment of public-transport services.