Irish Examiner view: Rural communities are losing their light

The pub plays a unique role in rural Ireland 

Vintners Federation of Ireland president Michael O’Donovan noted: 'Pubs are the social fabric of rural Ireland. They are where local clubs meet, where fundraisers are held, where neighbours look out for each other. For many older people, a visit to the local pub is a lifeline, a chance to see familiar faces, catch up on local news and feel part of a community.' File picture

What now for the Irish pub?

As reported on these pages in recent weeks, an average of two pubs are closing a week, with one third of those in Co Cork having shut since 2005.