There are 47 fewer pubs in Waterford now than there was in 2005.
A new survey shows that the pub population is continuing to fall, particularly in rural areas.
The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland analysis shows that nearly 20% of rural pubs across the country closed between 2005 and 2018, compared to just 1% in Dublin, with 71 rural pubs closing last year alone.
Revenue figures show that the rural pub population in Waterford experienced a drop of 18.1%, which is 47 fewer pubs in the county since 2005.
The group says that the industry enables over 5,000 jobs and contributes 138 million euro in tourism spend and has an immense importance in our local communities.
They say it is a stark reminder of the pubs continued decline in rural Ireland and they are calling on the government to ease the burden on rural drinks businesses by reducing the high alcohol exise tax over the next 2 years.
