from 01.05.2014 to 31.05 · Kaar and Heathers to A-list international artists like Ryan Adams and Franz Ferdinand, the bill is often eclectic, always great. Over two decades'into

Press Book

from 01.05.2014 to 31.05.2014

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Table of Contents

01/05/2014 Hot Press - Best of Ireland:20 of the Best Venues................................................................................................................... 3

29/04/2014 Mayo News:'Acoustic Yard' sessions up and running in Westport.................................................................... 6

24/05/2014 Irish Farmers Journal Country Living:Heard on the Grapevine................................................................................................................ 7

01/06/2014 Irish Music Magazine:IMRO Music Master - Class With Frankie Gavin............................................................................. 8

06/05/2014 Waterford News & Star-Well:Our pubs are dying....................................................................................................................... 9

12/05/2014 Donegal News-Monday:Pub trade turning the corner?..................................................................................................... 11

13/05/2014 Irish Independent Tabloid:Pubs can't be let wither like post offices and garda stations.......................................................13

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Copyright Material. This may only be copied under the terms of a Newspaper Licensing Ireland agreement(www.newspaperlicensing.ie) or written publisher permission.

http://www.newspaperlicensing.ie

Hot Press - Best of IrelandThursday, 1 May 2014Page: 104,105,106

Circulation: 17725Area of Clip: 177800mm²Page 1 of 3

VENUES Ireland hosts more exciting live shows per capita than any other nation on Earth. The range of rooms is impressive, from intimate places for some lowkey

acoustic magic to arenas tailor-made for international superstars. Here are the 20

finest venues in the country...

5TH ON TEELING 5 Teeling St., Sligo Tel: +353 (0)71 914 6842, 5thonteeling.com Since opening in May 2012, Sligo's 5th On Teeling has proved to be a terrific location for a gig in the North-West. Homegrown artists such as Mark Geary and Damien Dempsey have delivered storming sets in recent times, and it also plays host to eclectic DJ sets and a monthly comedy club. With a late bar, plenty of free shows and some fantastic bookings for the summer (Damien Dempsey's back, whilst the likes of Fake No More and Miles Graham & Vinyl Record Band are also confirmed to play), 5th On Teeling is a must-visit for any music lover that finds themselves in Sligo.

THE ACADEMY 57 Middle Abbev St., Dublin I Tel: +353 1 877 9999, theacademydublin.com With a capacity of just over 800, The Academy is a larger venue that makes you feel like you're really getting up-closeand-personal

with the act on stage. They consistently bring some of the most critically adored and commercially successful acts to Dublin. Over the last 12 months alone, they've played host to rising stars like The Strypes, Heathers, AlunaGeorge and John Newman. The Academy is also the home of live hiphop

in the capital, with Danny Brown and Earl Sweatshirt being just two recent rappers that have played incendiary shows there. With three venues in one building, the Green Room is perfect for clubs and DJ sets, whilst the underground Academy 2 is the perfect spot to catch those on the cusp of the big time.

BORD GAIS ENERGY THEATRE Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 677 7999, bordgaisenergytheatre. ie Opened four years ago at the Docklands, Dubliners instantly developed huge affection for the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. It is, quite simply, one of the most magnificent rooms you'll find anywhere, perfect for everything from a theatrical production to a performance from the world's most exciting artists. There isn't a bad seat in the house and you'll be safe in the knowledge that you can experience the show in total comfort. The likes of Elvis Costello and Bon Iver have graced its stage, and the theatre has also played host to major international

11 'ORDS: Craig Fitzpatrick

events such as OFFSET. It was the venue chosen to host Electric Burma, a concert held in honour of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and featuring Bono, Bob Geldof and more. Meanwhile, there's no better place for lovers of a good musical.

CORK OPERA HOUSE Emmet Place, Cork, Co. Cork Tel: +353 (0)21 427 0022, corkoperahouse.ie A real institution in the People's Republic, the Cork Opera House has legendary status down South as a superlative venue and has been even better since an impressive renovation over a decade ago. With incredible acoustics, they welcome accomplished performers of every ilk. From ballets and (naturally) operas, to the world's biggest stand-up comedians and rock acts, there really is something for everyone. It boasts a 1000-seater auditorium with orchestral pit, one of the country's largest stages and was the first venue to use digital sound desks in Ireland.

CRANE LANE Phoenix St., Cork, Co. Cork Tel: +353 (0)21 427 8487. cranelanetheatre.ie Rising from the ashes of the former Club One, this Phoenix Street venue is a key part of the brilliant music scene making Cork rock in 2014. With a 350-standing capacity, the intimate theatre is located on the remains of an old gentleman's club and is filled with history. Crane Lane prides itself in putting on the best of Irish, with And So I Watch You From Afar and Fox Jaw being just a couple of bands that have wowed Cork crowds over the past 12 months or so. Music aside, it takes its aesthetic inspiration from the music of Tom Waits. Decked out in '20s and '30s decor, Crane Lane has the best kind of character.

THOMAS HOUSE 86 Thomas St.., Dublin 8 Tel: +353 (0)1 677 2619.facebook.com/ thomashousedublin The Thomas House is a sanctuary (with a great soundtrack) for all manner of goodnatured

miscreants. Proudly proclaiming itself to be "the finest dive bar in Dublin City", if you are a punk, rockabilly or reggae lover, ska head or skinhead, metaller or plain old indie type, you'll have a thoroughly enjoyable time here. In terms of music venue credentials, The Thomas House hosts DJs every night of

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••• VENUES have packed out the award-winning spot are Mumford & Sons, Texas, Keywest, Kodaline, Matt Cardie, O.R.B and Ryan Sheridan. The staff" at Monroe's Live pride themselves on giving their patrons the ultimate Galway going-out experience and are happy to cater for large groups and parties, with a tasty cocktail menu on offer.

THE 02 Northmall Quay, Dublin 1 Tel: +353 (0)1 819 8888, theo2.ie Launched in December 2008, people still marvel at how the 02 Arena can pull off the trick of seeming completely intimate and immersive while being a 14,000-seat amphitheatre. Offering a concert experience like no other venue in the country, it is a ultramodern facility with world-class acoustics. A constant in the top five list of 'world's busiest venues', you can instantly see why when you step inside, especially when you're seeing massive international acts gracing its stage - Beyonce, The National and Ellie Goulding are just a trio of names that have recently put on storming shows there.

THE OLYMPIA 72 Dame St., Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 679 3323, olympia.k One of the oldest and most beloved venues in the capital city, the Olympia resembles "a classic Victorian Music Hall and plays host to some of the greatest modern musical acts around. Built in 1879 and operating in its current incarnation for 116 years, every week it seems another world-beating band or up-and-coming act is hitting its hallowed stage. Radiohead, Sufjan Stevens and David Bowie have all trodden its boards, while Disclosure, Tom Odell and Wild Beasts are some more recent guests. Every performer seems as enamoured with their surroundings as the adoring audience. A room with that something extra special.

THE ROISIN DUBH Lower Dominick St., Galway Tel: +353 (0)91 586 540, roisindubh.net Very few venues can beat Galway's Roisin Dubh when it comes to hosting the cream of the comedy and musical crop. With Gugai as the man doing the booking, his incredible eye and ear for talent has made it the place to catch an act before they go interstellar. From class Irish acts like Toby Kaar and Heathers to A-list international artists like Ryan Adams and Franz Ferdinand, the bill is often eclectic, always great. Over two decades'into its existence, it is still one of the best loved venues in the country. The City of the Tribes is often considered the centre of Ireland in

105

the week, with suitably diverse sounds coming from the speakers. Sundays are all about The Hangover Sessions, which means live bluegrass, blues and good old-fashioned rock '11' roll. Independently owned and run by two local promoters and DJs, it opens from 5pm and carries a great range of gargle.

DOLAN'S Dock Road, Limerick City Tel: +353 (0)61 314 483, dolans.ie Celebrating two decades in business this year, Dolan's picked up a Special Award at the IMRO Live Music Venue Awards in February. It was more than deserved. A fine midwest

establishment, Dolan's reputation continues to grow and grow as the acts they book get bigger and bigger. It now comprises three venues, two outdoor areas, a traditional Irish pub and restaurant. Bell XI, Villagers and Mmoths are just three homegrown names who have played memorable sets there, with a large international contingent, including Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand and Mumford And Sons, also visiting. Expect live music almost every night and the endless hospitality of owners Mick and Valerie, helped by the whole family.

THE GRAND SOCIAL 35 Lower Liffey St., Dublin 1 Tel: +353 (0)1 874 0076, thegrandsocial.ie Just a few paces from the iconic Ha'penny Bridge, the 300-capacity Grand Social has established itself as one of the best places to catch a memorable gig in the capital. The main music venue is upstairs and has a funky and alternative vibe, with the intimate stage surrounded by fairy lights a particularly beautiful sight. Right outside is a great, enclosed smoking space, with

retractable roof for those sunny summer days. The owners are supporters of independent music and it shows in their fantastic bookings. Internationally, Primal Scream and Jake Bugg have both rocked the room in recent times. Its reputation is such that when rising stars like O.R.B want to do something special for fans and mark an album release, their first thought is to put on a Grand Social show.

INEC Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: + 353 (0)64 667 1555, inec.ie The largest multi-purpose national events centre in Ireland, the INEC is an adaptable place that can switch effortlessly from the intimate to the arena-sized (it can accommodate between 200 and 3,000 people). Morrissey, Mick Flannery and Kodaline are just a handful of the big names that have played the INEC over the last few years, whilst Riverdance performed a couple of typically successful seasons there. The INEC also welcomes first rate comedians and theatrical productions, whilst it is a popular stopover for children's characters such as Barney, Dora, Mickey Mouse and Peppa Pig.

MONROE'S LIVE 14 Dominick St. Upper, Galway Tel: +353 (0)91 58 3397, monroes.ie Often called "the best in the West" when it comes to live music, Monroe's Live was voted the 2013 'Live Venue Of The Year' at the IMRO Awards. Boasting two stages and a top-end sound and lighting set-up, it is a major presence in Galway's West End. Its welcoming vibe and easy charm is incomparable, whilst their regular trad nights come in for particular praise. Of course, you'll find more than trad being played on its stages. Among the acts to

Hot Press Jagermeister Freezer Session, Crane Lane. Cork

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with special guest Japanese and Korean soloists, and 30 piece orchestra, will open on October 24. Tickets priced 25/34/40 euro are available from thetlt.ie. The theatre includes a school of music and rehearsal rooms.

VICAR ST. 58 - 59 Thomas St., Dublin 8 Tel: +353 (0)1 775 5800, vicarstreet.ie Vicar St. has a warm place in the hearts of artists and fans alike. Despite being one of Dublin's bigger venues with a seated capacity of over 1,000, its beautiful lay-out means an evening there feels like an intimate gathering. Easy to navigate, equipped with classy bars and never feeling too packed, it is a superlative spot to see everyone from Lana Del Rey and Glen Hansard to Spiritualized and Kendrick Lamar. It is also quite literally at the centre of the Irish music industry, playing host to the Choice Music Prize.

WHELAN'S 25 Wexford St., Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 478 0766, whelanslive.com Celebrating its quarter century anniversary this year, Whelan's has never been in better health. Combining world-class programmes with a warm and friendly pub atmosphere, it is at the heart of Dublin's - and the country's music scene. Its reputation has travelled around the globe, attracting the likes of Jeff Buckley, Nick Cave and a fresh-faced Arctic Monkeys in their formative years. Over the past 12 months alone, Kacey Musgraves, Tokyo Police Club, Roisin O, Parquet Courts and Poliga have added their names to that impressive list. An illustrious establishment that still delivers the goods on a weekly basis.

WORKAAAN'S CLUB 10 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2 Tel:+353 (0)1 6706 692, f theworkmansclub. com A much-loved musical fixture on Dublin's quays for four years now, the Workman's Club might just be the hippest spot around. Its live room continues to thrive and was previously used by Villagers in the recording of an album. Reeve Carney, Royal Blood, Lucius and Overhead, The Albatross are a few names that have put on memorable performances in the Workman's recently, whilst the upstairs Vintage Room and western-style Bison Bar have added strings to their bow. Add in the cool decor and a clued-in, extremely friendly staff and you have one of the best music venues and clubs in the country.

For more entertainment suggestions go to pages 8 and 16

Tame Impala performing at The Olympia

cultural terms, and the Roisin Dubh is right at its heart.

THE SET THEATRE Langdon House Hotel, 69 John St., Kilkenny Tel: +353 (0)56 772 1728, set.ie Now half a decade into its existence, the Set is one of the country's most state-ofthe-art

venues. A beautiful 350-capacity room, it's capable of holding conferences, films, music and comedy. The winner of an IMRO Live Music Award in the Rest Of Ireland category last year, The Set Theatre have in no way rested on their laurels, with the past 12 months spent welcoming the exciting likes of James Vincent McMorrow, Le Galaxie, David Holmes and more, ensuring they are a venue at the cutting edge of music and entertainment.

THE STIFF KITTEN 1 Bankmore Square, Dublin Road, Belfast Tel- +44 (0) 28 9023 8700, shine.net Belfast's live music scene is currendy experiencing a real renaissance and The Stiff Kitten is the jewel in its crown. Regularly hosting some of the biggest international DJs and bands, as well as weekly sell-out club nights, it opened in 2005 and is named after Joy Division's original moniker - so you know they have exquisite taste. A place where rock, dance, electronica and everything else you can think of comes together, it's a hip joint that pretty much guarantees you a good time.

THE SPIRIT STORE George's Quay, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: +353 (0)42 935 2697, spiritstore.ie The go-to music venue in Louth, The Spirit Store is proof that there's plenty going oh culturally between the cities of Dublin and Belfast. A major redevelopment was undertaken recendy to ensure it gives punters the best possible experience and remains extremely competitive - the new look was unveiled in March 2013 and has, been extremely well-received. Some things, however, remain the same: namely, the calibre of acts gracing its stage. The Quayside venue has recently played host to Therapy?, Mark Geary, Lisa O'Neill and Steve Craddock, as well as the comedic likes of Des Bishop and Foil, Arms & Hog.

THOMAS LEDDY THEATRE East Coast Business Park, Matthews Lane, Drogheda, Co. Louth Tel: +353 (0)41 987 8560, thetlt.ie A 900 capacity state of the art theatre, the TLT has one of the largest stages in the country. One of the most important venues in the North East, it is Drogheda's first privately owned concert hall and theatre. The venue hosts every type of event from local groups to international touring companies. The TLT will offer a Sound and Lighting Engineer course this summer. A much anticipated Ellen Kent production of Madame Butterfly,

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Mayo NewsTuesday, 29 April 2014Page: 18


'Acoustic Yard' sessions up and running in Westport "THE Acoustic Yard' is a new singer/ songwriters session in Westport hosted by recording artist David 'Dee' Moore and supported by IMRO (Irish Music Rights Organisation) and its latest outing

is tonight (Tuesday) at 8.30pm in Matt Molloy's Bar in Westport. It is also being filmed by Irishtv.ie as part of their new music schedule and the first session

was shown recently on 'Out and about in Ireland'.

The monthly event features some of the finest songwriters from around the world and has been set up not only as a concert but as an educational workshop for audience and player alike. Each month three songwriters will showcase and talk about their songs in the relaxed environment

in the surrounds of the yard bar in Matt Molloy's.

Tonight's show will feature former Eurovision Song Contest winner Charlie

McGettigan, Mississippi-born Americana songstress Kelley McRae and Belfast

multi-instrumentalist and host for the evening David 'Dee' Moore.

Twenty years ago Charlie McGettigan won the Eurovision Song Contest when joining forces with Paul Harrington and Brendan Graham with the song 'Rock and Roll kids' and was catapulted into Irish Music folklore. In 1973 he formed the highly successful Jargon group, who won the prestigious Letterkenny Folk Festival and led to a recording contract with Polygram records. The band went on to record three singles before Char-

* ON STAGE David 'Dee' Moore will be appearing as part of the 'Acoustic Yard' tonight in Matt Molloy's.

lie pursued a solo career. He has worked with artists like Maura O Connell and Eleanor Shanley who both recorded many of Charlie's songs.

Kelley McRae is touring Europe for the first time and is playing only a handful

of gigs in Ireland. 'The Acoustic Yard' is her only west of Ireland show/ Songs like 'Johnny Cash' and the title track of her new CD 'Brighter than the blues' sets Kelley apart as one of the finest 'New Country' songwriters to come out of the USA.

The host of the evening David 'Dee' Moore recently released his critically acclaimed CD 'The sun, the moon, the

stars...and other moving objects'. The CD is a collection of country folk songs that have recently received a lot of airplay

in Ireland and the UK culminating in recent appearances at the Westport Arts Festival and the Belfast Nashville singer/songwriters festival. His discography

includes two successful albums on the USA label 'Green Linnet' with Niamh Parsons with whom he toured and played at some of the biggest folk festivals in the world.

The doors open 8.30pm and please come early to avoid disappointment. Anyone wishing more informationplease contact [email protected].

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Irish Farmers Journal Country LivingSaturday, 24 May 2014Page: 40


When it comes to IMRO workshops, Brendan Graham is in a league of his own. Brendan commands huge respect among the songwriting fraternity and his workshop in Dublin last weekend reflected that.

Heard onjhe grapevine

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Irish Music MagazineSunday, 1 June 2014Page: 48


48 LIVE REVIEWS

IMRO MUSIC MASTER-CLASS WITH FRANKIE GAVIN Temple Bar Trad Fest, Saturday, January 25th, 2014.

the instrument, having the sound-post correctly positioned, checking if the strings are in tune, and then checking if the fingers are hitting the strings in tune. And at the end of it all, you might succeed in getting a bit of music.

What came across all the time was the good-natured courtesy and humour from both master and pupil alike. "Where's that voice from? Wisconsin. Lovely country." It's such a contrast from having a narky Herr Professor (who actually hates kids) laying down the law according to Sevcia or Willhelmj. No wonder that some of the players had classical training, but had seen sense, even though they still had the tunes written out in front of them.

Which led Frankie to remark that the dots on paper can never be more than an semi-accurate way of remembering the notes. He himself does not bother with the dots (and considering that Paul

A fiddle master-class? Great idea. But at 11 o'clock on a Saturday morning, and during the Trad Music weekend in Dublin? Didn't seem such a great idea at all. A certain

amount of previous experience would indicate that anything before noon on a Saturday is attended with risk.

Not this time.They were all lined-up, neat and clean and welladvised, as the song says, but wide awake and eager too, with

fiddle cases slung over the shoulders, and fiddles in them too. No pseuds or shape-throwers with empty cases round here.

Outside in the cobbled street, there's a festival air with pens of sheep, hens and ducks, and a pair of gundogs on display. A pop-up farm. And there's the sound of a blacksmith's hammer as a horse gets shod.

Inside the Little Theatre there are five chairs on stage. The middle

"The main lesson was that it is the individual player who has to take full responsibility for the sound that's coming out of the instrument, and to lose no opportunity to improve it"

one is for Frankie Gavin and the other four are for those brave enough to want to play for him and probably improve, or at least get a few pointers.

Frankie wasted no time in getting down to business. He recalled players who had started by holding the fiddle very flat, and using the pads of the fingers to stop the strings. Sooner or later an expert would come along and correct or alter everything, and ensure that the strings were hit with the tips of the fingers. Hard graft and no fun.

But it was the bow that was his main concern. Frankie uses quite a tight grip and plays with the middle of the bow, using a fair bit of bite. No room for loose grip if you want to play with authority. No chance for the bow to bounce or wander. He explained that it was best to concentrate on wrist action rather than elbow.

With several players who were using one bow for several notes, he stopped the tune and recommended one note per bow-stroke. And it worked, and the players were grateful for it.

This style works best for the dance tunes: slow air may need long flowing bows, but Frankie admitted that he was not a fan of slow airs, though later on he did relent and played for us She lived beside the Anner at the foot of Sliabh na mBan.

The main lesson was that it is the individual player who has to take full responsibility for the sound that's coming out of the instrument, and to lose no opportunity to improve it. That includes maintaining

McCarney refused to learn in case it would get in the way of the music, who would dare to say he's wrong/). But the received wisdom is that the tune cannot come alive until it's secure inside the aural memory.

It was Virginia Woolf who said that every writer needed a room of their own. Frankie several times said that a player should organise the space for themselves to deal with their instrument, without comment from others, however well intentioned.

And when Frankie went on to relate his own experiences, he recalled his father saying to him, when he was about 15 and looking to a career in music: "It's a great hobby and it will last you a lifetime, and you meet lovely people, but don't even think of making a living out of it." Orchestral conductor Colman Pearce, who was in the audience was among those who were grateful that this advice had been disregarded. Which, led Frankie to question the social status accorded to traditional players, and their value in the community. Under-rated, we are.

As regards older recordings, Frankie's lode star is firmly fixed on James Morrison of Sligo, though he also loves the Donegal tradition as heard in John Doherty's recordings.

Frankie ended up with a few tips for us on warming up the fingers before playing. When you've that many tunes waiting to get out, they need all the help they can get.

John Brophy

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Waterford News & Star-WellTuesday, 6 May 2014Page: 4


View from the Blue

Our pubs are dying IT should go without saying that I am totally

aware of the dangers of alcohol and how it has broken up too many families and ruined too many Irish lives. Ireland has become well known for its abuse of drink but I'm almost certain that a huge proportion

of that abuse, particularly among younger people, is down to the ease at which people can pick it up cheaply from supermarkets. When you're drinking in a pub, you are doing it in the public eye. And unlike a bookies, where the girl behind the counter is not allowed to tell you if she thinks you're betting too much, a bar man will tell you when it's time to call it a day. If he doesn't, there's a good chance someone else will. My point is, when you're drinking in a pub, you're amongst friends (usually) and not sitting in a room on your own. The increase in supermarkets (at last count there were approximately one million Tescos in Waterford) has led to more and more people getting their drink in bulk and choosing to stay at home for their libations instead of heading to their local. I'm not suggesting that we ban the sale of cheaper alcohol, but I would like to see a level playing

field where the publican can actually engage in a fair fight with the supermar¬

kets. Right now, all the publican has to sell is drink, and the Government take most of the money that comes in for that. Supermarkets

don't care about losing the odd few bob on the price of drink because they can get it back with the other few thousand products that they sell. In a country that is known for its pubs I don't think that this is very fair at all. Here are some facts for you. Presently, there are 8,298 pubs and bars in Ireland. To me, in the current state of affairs, that's 8,298 owners that should probably have their heads examined. With the competition

from the supermarkets and the huge cut that the government take from their profits (and thaf s not including rates etc) they deserve some credit for having the balls to give it a go. There are 63,000 full or part-time jobs provided by pubs and bars in Ireland and the total amount of wages paid by the drinks industry (including off licences and breweries) is €885 million. In total, there are 92,000jobs that are supported

by the drinks industry. In Waterford, there are 2,196 jobs provided by the

248 bars and pubs that we have in our county. You'd think, with figures that high, that the Government would treat it with a

litde bit more respect wouldn't you? The reason I ask if the pub is dying will be pretty obvious to most of you. Just have a think about some of the pubs that used to be around 10 and 15 years ago, but are gone now. Just off the top of my head, here's a list (not including pubs that have been replaced by new ones) - Shefflins, Harveys, Masons, The Old Stand, City Arms, Egans, T&Hs, McLougblins, The Bank Bar, The Bull Post.. .and that's to name but a few. The truth about the decline in so many of Waterford's pubs is that its clientele is actually

getting old and dying. I spoke to a publican this week who told me that two of his

regulars had died recendy and another two had strokes. Now, he told me that he was very sad to see the men pass on, as they were good friends of him and the bar, but speaking from a business point of view, he told me that each of those men used to put around €200 behind the bar each week. That's approximately €40,000 a year (give or take a few grand obviously), that won't

be in that publican's till anymore. Now, you can pass judgements on the lifestyle of these men, but we don't really have the right to do that do we? These particular

gentlemen were widows whose

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Waterford News & Star-WellTuesday, 6 May 2014Page: 4


families had all grown up and moved on. Their life was their local. Whether it was a large bottle and a whiskey chaser, this was just the life that they had known and loved. They were men of a different time and the pubs meant as much to them as the tourists think it means to us all. I asked the publican if he was doing well, and all he could do was laugh at me. "listen

Darren," he said. "After I pay my rates, my VAT, my rent, my ESB, my SKY, my IMRO, my staff, my insurance and my entertainment, I'm very lucky if I have something left to give myself. The truth is, I rarely do. We just get by from week to. week." Most people don't know this but when a barman sells you a pint of beer for €4.50, only €1 (approx) will actually go to him. Now, I'm not asking anyone to feel sorry for publicans, especially the ones who knowingly

got involved in the business after the recession hit, but I do believe that they deserve our respect and some credit. People

like nothing more than to complain about the price of drink and say things like

"Sure why would I go to the pub when I get the drink cheaper in Tesco and enjoy them in my own house?" Well here's the harsh reality lads, you see

the way the suicide rate in this country has sky rocketed in recent years? How many of those people do you think got drunk at home before they decided to take their lives? That's not something that you're ever going to read about and it's certainly not something you will see any stats on but I believe it's a massive factor in someone going over the edge. The same can be said about domestic violence.

When people have drinks in a pub, like I said before, they are out in public view and in many cases there are security personnel and bar-staff to keep an eye on them. When they're at home, there is no policing and nobody to step in and prevent something nasty from happening. As I said, I understand both sides of the argument and I'm not asking for people to cry for our publicans, but I see people lamenting for our old pubs all the time, especially places like Egans and the Old Stand.. .but remember people, the reason they closed in the first place was that people

were frequenting them less and less. We can think about heading to the local for a couple of sociable ones instead of bringing

a slab of supermarket beer back to the house but really it's the Government who need to make the game fairer for everyone.

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Donegal News-MondayMonday, 12 May 2014Page: 26


Pub trade turning t the corner?

There are some signs the pub trade is starting to turn a corner with some green shoots appearing writes Gerry Gallagher, chairman of the Donegal branch of the Vintners' Federation of Ireland ahead of their AGM which is on in Mayo this week.

AS I sit down and put pen to paper on this piece, I can't help but feel cautiously optimistic by what has been an improved spell for some of the pub industry along with the hope of a brighter future.

Unfortunately, this does not include all pubs and there are in fact

areas in rural Ireland that are not experiencing this uplift.

No doubt, we have experienced a tough period with 1,300 pubs closing their doors since 2005 being evidence

of this. Jobs have been lost and this had had a deep impact. Thankfully this rate of closures is slowing. However the general outlook

still seems to be that for the

pub trade to recover, the economy will have to recover first. Consumers

need to feel confident and start spending again.

Make no mistake about it; most pubs are still facing significant challenges.

The main factors effecting sustainability are the lack of disposable

income and the emigration of many of our younger generation.

The situation is compounded when you consider that some pubs, particularly rural establishments serve smaller catchment areas and have access to very poor transport services.

The impact of tighter drink driv¬

ing legislation is also acutely felt in this regard. High costs also continue

to hamper publicans with Sky, IMRO and commercial rates continually

rising. There are issues on a wider level

which concern our industry which need to be urgently addressed.

The Government's failure to implement health codes deeply disappoints

us. As an entity, the VFI would urge the Government to address

the sale of cheap alcohol, introduce the ban on price based advertising

and bring in the statutory code of practice in respect of segregation.

This is a massive social and health issue which cannot be ig-

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Donegal News-MondayMonday, 12 May 2014Page: 26


Gerry Gallagher, Donegal Vintners President.

puts dependent on the drinks industry. The pub is still central to much of

what happens in local communities and no one is going to tell me any different. Communal activities such as clubs and sports teams have originated and continue

to do as a result of the pub. The pub is a key player in Ireland's

tourism sector. But don't take my word for it alone, recent research shows that over 80% of tourists use the pub for food and/or entertainment.

Furthermore in a recent Bord Failte survey of 1,514 visitors to Ireland, 83% of those surveyed said they had listened to live Irish music in a pub while a further 79% remarked they had tasted a Guinness.

Let's not forget as well that the Irish Pub has previously been voted as the number one tourist destination by the Lonely Planet.

A growing tourism business will be good for the trade. The recent launch of 'The Wild Atlantic Way' is a case in point. The pub will be central to almost all of the offerings along this way.

Overall, our publicans are very much aware of the changing marketing opportunities

available and many are already embracing social media channels and events as a way of communicating with their customers and driving their business.

As other services like Post Offices, Tourist Offices and Garda Stations are being closed there will be a further reliance

on pubs in many areas for essential services.

The Irish pub needs to recognise the niche they want to fill and fill it well into the future. Many are well on the road to doing that and turning a corner in the process.

nored any longer. As well as that, this industry needs relief

from the current penal rate of excise. At a time when we are enticing more

tourists, our country already has one of the highest levels of excise in the EU with current government take on excise and VAT on alcohol at €2bn.

The last thing the consumer needs is more tax and I would encourage people to remember that excise is not a tax on the publican but rather a tax on the public.

Notwithstanding all that, as an industry, publicans are united and very resilient.

Publicans are focusing on changed offerings with an increased emphasis

on events. The pub industry creates jobs in areas

where there is not much else in terms of employment.

Current stats indicate 92,000 are dependent on the drinks industry for employment.

In this county alone, 3,817 jobs rely upon the drinks industry. Additionally,

there is €l.lbillion worth of Irish in¬

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Irish Independent TabloidTuesday, 13 May 2014Page: 27


Pubs can't be let wither like post offices and garda stations Ws Of

s w

EN I take up the role of president of the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI) I will be the first

female to hold this position. For decades women have played a crucial role in the Irish pub, working behind the bar and managing premises.

It is a symbolic breakthrough that the Irish pub trade now has a female at the helm. But symbolism alone will not address the issues we face. It does not matter what gender the president is if they don't work hard to fight for those we represent.

I run a pub in Nenagh called Rocky O'Sullivan's, along with my husband Jim, and it has been in the family for four generations. Ours, like 90pc of all Irish pubs, is very much a famiiy-run pub, facing the same business challenges as every other small business owner. Nenagh is a town that has experienced its economic troughs and peaks over the last decade.

There is no doubt the last couple of years have proved difficult for many and the publican is no exception with many pub closures and job losses.

Noreen O'Sullivan

Some 1,300 pubs have closed since 2005. Make no mistake about it, many pubs are still facing significant challenges.

The main factors effecting sustainability are the lack of disposable income and the emigration of many of our young people. The situation is compounded when you consider that some pubs, particularly rural establishments, serve smaller catchment areas and have very poor transport services. The impact of tighter drink driving legislation is acutely felt in this regard. High costs continue to hamper publicans with Sky TV, IMRO and commercial rates continually rising.

However, we must not sit back and sulk. We cannot expect others to come to our rescue. We must extol the virtues of the great institution that is the Irish pub.

We have been to the forefront in the launch of a recent campaign -

Support Your Local. The drinks industry supports 92,000 jobs, buys €l.lbn of Irish inputs and our pubs offer a unique hospitality experience, renowned internationally. Take the case of Co Mayo - where our AGM is being held today - where 3,718 jobs are supported by the drinks industry contributing €84m in payroll per annum.

There are issues on a wider level which concern our industry that need to be urgently addressed and the Government's failure to implement health codes deeply disappoints us. I urge the Government to address the sale and promotion of cheap alcohol, introduce the ban on price-based advertising and bring in the statutory code of practice in respect of the sale of alcohol in a segregation area in supermarkets and convenience stores. This is a massive social and health issue which cannot be ignored any longer. The Government has promised to introduce such measures but has yet to put action to its words.

The industry also needs relief from the current penal rate of excise. At a time when we are enticing more tourists, we already have one of the

highest levels of excise in the EU. The difference in excise and VAT on a bottle of Irish whiskey in Ireland, compared to Spain, is €16.53. The last thing the consumer needs is more tax and I would encourage people to remember that excise is a tax on the public not on the publican.

Publicans remain united and resilient and are focusing on

changed Thpnnfc offerings with an 1 oe puo increased IS Ot vita; emphasis on economic events. Pubs are and social embracing the

digital era, many irnpoi lance are a]rea(jy

for Ireland embracing social media channels as a way of

communicating with their customers and driving their business.

Publicans remain at the forefront of organising and supporting local festivals and are hosting events from comedy clubs to card clubs. They have diversified their offering to embrace the latest trends in food and drink from craft beers to gastro pubs.

Publicans are deeply entrenched

in the communities they serve and support local sports clubs and teams to the tune of €3.5m every year.

Importantly, the pub is a key player in Ireland's tourism sector which is seen as a major player in any recovery. Some 80pc of tourists use the pub for food and entertainment. In a recent Failte Ireland survey of over 1,500 visitors to Ireland, 83pc of those surveyed said they had listened to live Irish music in a pub - the number one attraction.

Let us not forget as well that the Irish pub has previously been voted the number one tourist destination by the 'Lonely Planet Guide'.

As other services like post offices, tourist offices and garda stations are being closed there will be a further reliance on pubs in many areas for essential services.

The pub is of vital economic and social importance and through innovation, hard work and meeting new consumer demands we will ensure that we not alone survive but thrive.

Noreen O'Sullivan will be elected the first female president of the Vintners Federations of Ireland (VFI) today.

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from 01.05.2014 to 31.05 · Kaar and Heathers to A-list international artists like Ryan Adams and Franz Ferdinand, the bill is often eclectic, always great. Over two decades'into