‘I have kept my pint at €4.50 but my energy bills have doubled – I don’t know how long my pub will survive’

Publican Joseph Dowling, who owns The Candy Store in Waterford city, said this is the toughest time he can remember in the pub trade

Publican Joseph Dowling of The Candy Store, Waterford city. His electricity bill has doubled this year. Photo: Patrick Browne

Laura Lynott

Like many bar owners, publican Joseph Dowling is unsure how long his business will be viable, as his utility bills go up and his customers experience financial pressures.

Mr Dowling (62) has been in the pub business for decades, first running a London pub in the 1990s and then his bar, The Candy Store, in Waterford city.