Mr. Peter Mosley:

In regard to pub chains and pub groups and the concern about them coming into Ireland, the reality is that there are already many pub groups trading in Ireland. Many groups operate numerous bars within the State, especially in Dublin. That is already occurring. Whether it is a situation that necessarily presents a big problem, I do not know. We currently have large groups with multiple bars, so I do not see that there will be change there.

In regard to rural pubs, maybe the bars are currently just not fit for the environment in which they are operating. Maybe that needs to be addressed. They might be oversized, for instance, for the population they service. Bars have a fundamentally important role within the community.

I do not think anybody disputes that. However, the current offering is not necessarily what the public requires or expects. It is not then profitable for the business operator.