Lowry calls on Government to review pub support package

Deputy Michael Lowry has called on the Government to review the support package they announced on Friday afternoon.

He says that the package is negative and is not enough to meet the needs of publicans across the country, most of whom are struggling to keep their heads above water after almost six months of closure. This sector has suffered enormously as a result of imposed rules preventing them from trading and earning a living.

"Publicans have lost their livelihoods," says Deputy Lowry, "the Government cannot expect them to stay closed in the interest of public health while, at the same time, not provide them with a basic income support package. I have been inundated with phone calls and messages since the package was announced from publicans who are desperate for help at this stage. They are at their wits end with worry and have no idea when they will be allowed to re-open their businesses."

Deputy says that what is needed immediately is an adjusted support package that will generate a basic weekly wage for publicans and their families. 2Support is not enough, what is needed is a weekly income."