The rural pub is the heart and soul of rural communities. In many villages and towns, it is the last remaining space for villages and clubs to come together to support rural organisations. The rural pub is closing in dramatic fashion. Recently, a report by the Vintners' Federation of Ireland, VFI, found that there was significant pressure. One in four pubs has closed since 2005. This represents more than 2,000 pubs. This trend will continue. I want the Government to realise that there is significant value to the rural pub. A two-tier economy is developing in Ireland. If the Taoiseach comes to Connacht, he will see significant dereliction in our town centres. We need to protect the rural pub. Government policy on excise duty and VAT is hammering rural pubs. The other major issue for publicans is the lack of transport at night time. There has been a significant reduction in the number of taxis in Ireland. There has been an increase in population and an increase in State contracts in terms of the HSE and the Department of education. As a result, taxi drivers in the main are fulfilling their taxi obligations during the day.

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As a result, there are no taxis-----

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-----at night time and publicans are forced to operate an informal taxi service-----

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-----which is causing massive pressure. Will the Taoiseach address the key issues in the pub sector----

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-----in terms of tax, excise duty and transport? We need greater flexibility for taxi services.

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And economic viability. That is important. Economic viability and no taxis.

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Taxis.

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