The Last Word with Matt Cooper What Is The Future For The Irish Pub?
Jan 9, 2026
Donal Fallon, a historian and podcaster known for exploring Irish pub history, teams up with Dr. Perry Sher, head of the School of Business and Social Sciences, to discuss the future of Irish pubs. They delve into the alarming 20% decline in pub numbers and the impact of rising costs on rural establishments. Topics include the appeal of Dublin's tourist-friendly pubs versus the challenges faced by local bars, evolving drinking behaviors, and the necessity of preserving conversation in pubs. They also examine the global spread of Irish pubs and the changing role of food.
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Suburban And Rural Pubs Are Dwindling
- Dublin's pub closures are concentrated in suburban and bypassed rural towns rather than the city centre.
- Donal Fallon notes a drop from ~8,600 to ~6,500 pubs in ~20 years, a significant decline.
City Centre Pubs Survive On Regulars And Aesthetics
- City-centre pubs that survive often retain regulars and local community roles despite tourist trade.
- Fallon says many central pubs balance visitor aesthetics with genuine regular customers and conversation.
Towers Pub As Estate Community Hub
- Fallon recounts the Towers in Ballymun as an 'estate pub' central to local community life.
- He contrasts estate pubs with suburban flat-roof pubs and their historical role.
