You make a few valid points...
And perhaps I should have been more specific when I mentioned other local businesses. Sorry, it was late :) I was speaking about businesses such as taxi cab firms (most of which are in trouble due to an explosion in taxi licenses around the city when the legislation in this area was changed), local fast food places that open late, late night cafes... Businesses that have a clear, vested interest in the pub trade. An hour less for pubs is an hour less for them. Basic arithmetic that could cause them problems financially. Granted, it's possible that it may not, but I'm saying why risk it?
I have no issue with you contesting my assumptions. If anything, I welcome it. I don't claim to be an expert on the economy. I was only speaking specifically about Galway and jobs in the bar trade. (Yes, I opened it up with mentions of Irishness and "myopic fucknuggets", but that was an attempt at angry humour. You may not have bitten, but hey, I'm not that funny.)
I have been speaking to friends of mine who work in the bar trade; bar staff, bar managers, DJs and security staff, and they are all genuinely worried about what this could mean to their livelihood... And their voices should be listened to. Hence, why I put up the link to the petition.
What I do take issue with is you calling me dishonest... That I "pretend" to be concerned about the economy because I just want to drink later. Patronising at best, insulting at worst. I am concerned about the economy. Very concerned. Many friends and family members have been directly affected by the recession... Money and jobs lost, lives altered. I've lost substantial hours in my job myself. Less money for bills, food, rent... You know, when I've not blown it all in anxious pursuit of a pint of that sweet 2am nectar.
Many Irish people feel a sense of desperation due to the financial mire this country finds itself in. There is a helplessness that permeates deep, and it will take years to fade. With this enforcement of different closing times, I saw friends - and strangers - become genuinely concerned about their jobs. More recruits to a hemorrhaging group, city and country wide. With this petition, I saw a chance to help out, in however minuscule a way.
You may not agree. And that's totally fine. I actually enjoy discussions like these. They should be a vital cog in how society works, but very often are not... At the same time though, show some respect in said discussions, and please don't label me "dishonest".
And as for "assumptions" go, how do you even know I drink?
(, Wed 15 Aug 2012, 13:17, Reply)