A new pilot project was launched today by the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Financial supports will be provided to publicans in country areas to diversify their facilities for community use.
The programme will see rural pubs, during quiet trading times, used as digital hubs, community cinemas, book clubs, arts and crafts workshops and community meeting spaces.
50,000 euro of funding has been provided to the Vintners Federation of Ireland for five pubs in Cork, Cavan, Kerry, Donegal, and Clare as part of the pilot programme.
The 'Our Rural Future' initiative would to other parts of the country if the pilot is successful.
