Quarter of Longford pubs closed during past five years

County Longford has suffered the highest number of pub closures in the region. Figures released by the Revenue Commissioners show that since 2005 there has been a drop of 24% in ordinary pub licences in County Longford, which is significantly higher than those recorded in the region's other counties.

In 2005, 123 licences were recorded by the Revenue Commissioners in County Longford, compared to 94 licences in 2010 representing the non renewal of 29 licences.

Looking through the figures it is clear to see the gradual decline over the years. The sharpest decline took place in 2006 with a drop of 11% followed by another steep decline in 2010 (7%).

These figures relate only to ordinary pub licences and do not cover licences for hotels with public bars, ordinary hotels, theatres, or off licences. From figures provided, it shows that four off-licence licences have not been renewed in County Longford. There are currently 30 licences of this nature recorded, a drop of four on 2009 figures.

Throughout the region a similar downward trend is noted. In Leitrim, the Revenue Commissioners recorded a total of 118 pubs in 2010, which was a drop of 18% on 2005 figures (145 licences).

In Roscommon, the five-year period saw a fall of 15% from 264 licences in 2005 to 225 licences in 2010. Meanwhile in Cavan, 213 licences were recorded last year, which represented a drop of 7% from 230 licences in 2010.

In County Westmeath there was a drop of 14% when licences fell from 209 in 2005 to 179 in 2010.