‘Immediate action’ is needed to prevent a surge of closures in the hospitality sector, the Restaurants Association of Ireland has warned.
It comes after one of Cork’s best-known restaurants closed its doors with immediate effect after more than three decades.
Nash 19 will not reopen after its traditional post-Christmas break and liquidators have been appointed.
In a post online, Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) chief Adrian Cummins said he was shocked and saddened by the news - warning that the closure of the “Cork institution” highlights the crisis in the industry.
"If a long-standing business like this is closing, what hope [is there] for the rest of the sector," he said.
"The Government needs to take immediate action".
Shocked and saddened by the news @Nash19Cork , a Cork institution is closing.
Huge supporter of local food producers.
If a long standing business like this is closing, what hope for the rest of the sector.
Government needs to take immediate action https://t.co/0o13H7d14Z https://t.co/WzcoRitqIf— Adrian Cummins 🇮🇪🇪🇺 (@adriancummins) January 12, 2024
Cork Business Association President Kevin Herlihy said the restaurant will be sorely missed.
"Very, very saddened to hear the closure of Nash 19," he said.
"Claire Nash has been a driving force in business in the city, and indeed within the Cork Business Association over the last 30-odd years.
"She'll be sorely missed on Prince's Street," he added.
It comes as more shops and restaurants in Cork city are closing their doors for good.
Most recently The Baldy Barber announced its closure because of rising costs.
The Government announced last year that licence fees for outdoor dining were to be waived to help businesses save money.
Additional reporting: Kellie Murphy
