Published: Friday, 22nd January, 2010 11:04am

15 pub licences relinquished throughout Offaly

Some 15 pub licences in Offaly were not renewed between 2007-2009, according to new figures revealed in the Dáil recently shining a light on the sharp decline of the rural hostelries nationwide.

In all, 833 licences were not renewed around the country over the two-year period, Mayo-based John O'Mahony discovered in new statistics released to him by the Department of Finance, something he believes is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life in rural communities across the State.

"There is no doubt that the vast majority of pubs not renewing their licences are simply shutting down," he said.

"While licences are being sold in some cases, they have a considerably diminished value because of the recession and are not sought after."

While he admitted the recession was contributing to the pub decline, an inadequate rural transport service was also a factor.

Cork topped the list for between 2007-2009, with 109 licences not renewed, they were followed by Dublin with 70 and Galway and Kerry with 55 each.

Meanwhile, closer to home, Laois saw the non-renewal of 22 licences, with 23 gone in Westhmeath, 28 gone in Roscommon and another 10 gone in Longford. Carlow was the lowest with just nine pub licences not renewed.

Vintners Federation of Ireland President Val Hanley said pub closures were having a devastating effect on rural Ireland.