Guinness launches €14m fund to support the recovery of pubs across Ireland

Guinness has announced it will launch a €14m fund to support the recovery of pubs across Ireland following the Coronavirus pandemic.

The “Raising The Bar” fund will help publicans reopen their doors as part of a $100m global fund by owner Diago.

Welcoming the announcement, Gerry Lennon, chief executive of Visit Belfast, said:

“Diageo Northern Ireland has been a committed strategic partner of Visit Belfast for more than 15 years, helping to drive the significant growth in the city’s hospitality and tourism sector during this time, supporting jobs, skills development and innovation.

“Visit Belfast welcomes this two-year funding package for its hospitality businesses at a time when they urgently need support and assistance.  I would encourage all eligible businesses to register their interest as soon as they can.

“Belfast’s pubs and bars are an integral part of our city welcome, our brand identity, our culture and our stories – they are a hallmark of our local and international tourism success.

Hospitality is vital in supporting thousands of jobs across the city region and Diageo Northern Ireland’s on-going support will help build a resilient, safe and sustainable future.”

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