New report warns up to 10,000 drinks and hospitality jobs in the border region could be at risk

Up to 10,000 drinks and hospitality jobs in the border region could be at risk, according to a report from Drinks Industry Group Ireland.

Patricia Callan, Director of Drinks Ireland, says this will disproportionately affect women and younger people, who may have caring duties or be in full-time education.

So-called "wet pubs" were allowed to re-open yesterday, though they remain closed in Dublin.

Patricia accused the government of "over-reacting" and said that 25 countries across the EU have been able to keep their drinks and hospitality sectors open during the pandemic.

Speaking on The Wider View, she called for a reduction in excise rates and hospitality VAT to help the sector: