The Support Your Local campaign has launched an employment trail map with the aim of highlighting the job and wage contribution of Ireland's drink and hospitality industry, which it says directly employs more than 204,000 people.
The map shows the industry's contribution for each Irish constituency, highlighting the regional spread of its economic contribution.
The study shows that Cork's industry supports 18,883 jobs with a wages contribution of €416 million, while Galway supports 11,333 jobs with a wages contribution of €237 million. Counties such as Waterford and Wexford contribute 5,260 and 8,159 jobs respectively, with wages of €110 million and €172 million.
The data is based on research performed by DCU Economist Tony Foley and was launched at an employment roundtable discussion at Heinkein Ireland in Cork. It also explored how to use growth in the industry to help support job creation across the country.
Michael Storan, Campaign Manager for Support Your Local said: “The drinks and hospitality industry plays a vital role in the economy of Ireland. Moreover, few industries can boast such a dispersed presence across the country as exemplified by the employment trail launched today. The Support Your Local campaign is calling for a 15 per cent reduction in alcohol excise in the upcoming Budget as a means to support the growth and development of the sector. It is crucial that this sector is supported.”
