Border region sees drop in numbers working in hospitality sector

Drinks group warns of long term impacts.

Border counties have seen a drop of 3,400 in the number of people employed in the food and hospitality sectors.

A new report published today from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) shows all parts of the country have seen a decrease in the number of people working in the sector.

The group has warned of a “two-tier recovery in 2022, with hospitality facing major post-Covid challenges”.

The report shows 40,000 fewer people are employed in the industry across the country.

The border region, made up of Cavan, Monaghan, Leitrim, Sligo and Donegal, has 15,200 people employed in the drinks and hospitality industry.

Cavan alone accounts for 4.6% of the country’s total.

A slow down in the domestic tourism market, consumer reluctance and a decrease in demand in international tourism will continue to hit the market in 2022, according to DIGI.

All eyes will be firmly on next month’s budget and the level of taxation placed on the sector.

“Ireland’s high rate of excise, which represents a significant cost, is forcing drinks and hospitality businesses to make growth-limiting sacrifices,” said Liam Reid, Chair of DIGI and Corporate Relations Director at Diageo Ireland.