Publicans across Cork are fearful that this coming winter will bring closures and reduced hours for many in the trade.
Up to half of the 600 publicans who operate across the city and county say soaring energy prices could force them to close their doors for good.
Publicans say their daily running costs have more than doubled which is forcing them to considering cost saving measures such as opening on reduced hours.
The Government is being urged to intervene and reduce excise duty in this year's budget.
Speaking to RedFM News, Michael Farrell of Farrells Bar in Youghal says the outlook is bleak for many publicans:
"They are very, very fearful. Energy costs are going through the roof. And I suppose, we can only increase our prices to a certain point. It's a non-return. So, people have to look at their costs of running the places. We've seen that fuel and electricity have gone up, at least three to four fold in some cases".
Meanwhile, yesterday RedFM News spoke to the manager of a West Cork hotel who says the government needs to understand the situation facing many business - as the cost of energy soars.
Neil Grant from the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery was speaking after the hotel received a bill of over 18,200 euro for electricty in July - a jump of almost 10,000 euro in 12 months.
Elsewhere, several popular restaurants in the city announced yesterday that they have shut their doors for good.
Captain Americans, the Queen of Rebels Bar and Rice Chinese on South Main Street are to close permanently, due to 'difficult trading conditions'.
