Researchers say there has been a noticeable increase in the number of vacant shops and businesses in nearly every part of the country.  The research, carried out by mapping firm GeoDirectory, found that the average vacancy rate now stands at 13.5 per cent.  Donegal, Limerick, Laois, Kerry and Longford recorded the largest rises, showing an east-west divide.

Have you been impacted and affected as a retailer in a town around Ireland?  Has there been a drop off in footfall in your business?  Has your towns main street been negatively affected by Covid, the lockdown and reluctance of consumers to get back to shopping?  And are you now seeing vacant shops and businesses in your town?

Duncan Graham, the Managing Director of Retail Excellence Ireland joined Sinead to outline the issues affecting Irish retailers.

Lunchtime Live

Listen and subscribe to Lunchtime Live on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.

Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.

You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by adding the Newstalk skill and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'.