Shock in Tallaght as Cuckoo’s Nest forced to close – O’Connor
Published on: 21 May 2015
Tallaght Councillor Charlie O’Connor has expressed his shock and sadness at the news that iconic local pub the Cuckoo’s Nest has been forced to shut down.
The Fianna Fáil Councillor has described it as a major blow to the local economy and to the social fabric of Tallaght.
“This is a sad day for Tallaght. The much-loved Cuckoo’s Nest has been at the heart of the community here for 53 years. It is a staple of life for so many locals who regularly pop in for a pint, a bite to eat or to watch a match with friends and family. Hundreds of families across Tallaght will have fond memories of celebrating special occasions in the Cuckoo’s Nest over the years,” Cllr O’Connor said.
“My heart goes out to the Lynch family, who say they have been left with no choice but to close their doors and let go their 20 staff. Many of the staff had worked there for decades. It is deeply upsetting for them in particular, as they have always worked so hard at making this pub the warm, friendly and fun landmark that it was.
“It’s also a blow to the local economy. This has come on the heels of the closure of the Abberley Court Hotel in Tallaght. Not only does it mean the loss of more than 90 local jobs, there is no doubt that there will be a knock-on effect for other local businesses. These two closures are further evidence of the huge pressure that’s on small businesses and the unsustainably high operating costs that they face. The bottom line is that our local businesses are not being supported in bringing down costs and accessing credit. This needs to change.
“I am saddened that Tallaght has now lost another piece of social infrastructure. To lose the Abberley Court and the Cuckoo’s Nest within weeks of one another is a major blow for community.”