Proposal to revive traditional card game to support rural pubs in Tipperary
The proposal highlights changing social habits in Ireland and suggests one way of helping to keep rural pubs open across the county
A proposal to revive the traditional Irish card game 25 across Tipperary has received a positive response from members of Tipperary Sports Partnership’s programme.
At June's monthly meeting of the Carrick-on-Suir Municipal District, Fine Gael Councillor Mark Fitzgerald suggested that Tipperary Sports Partnership explore ways of reintroducing the popular card game as a means of supporting rural pubs while bringing different generations together.
As younger people increasingly choose no and low alcohol drinks when socialising, due to limited transport options in rural Ireland, the proposal suggests the game could offer an alternative form of pub activity beyond alcohol while also helping keep rural pubs open.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Fitzgerald said: “One thing we see in Ireland that's dying out in a big way, and which was a cornerstone of every kitchen or corner of a pub for the last 50 or 100 years, was a game of 25. There are so many little pubs around the place that are dying out in Tipperary.
"It's a great game and very popular in men's sheds around Ireland.
"It would be great if we could use the older generation to teach the newer generations the game. Maybe it would be something that could be factored in going forward. There could be a collaboration between the youth groups and men's sheds in Tipperary."
Responding to the suggestion, Sports Inclusion and Disability Officer Stephen Quinn welcomed the idea.
“It’s a wonderful idea and it will be something we will look at,” he said.
"We're always looking for innovative ideas to get people exercising and, if we can mix generations and increase participation, it is a great idea. It's something I'll be bringing back to the team."
The primary aim of the Tipperary Sports Partnership (TSP) is to coordinate, promote, and develop recreational sport and physical activity across County Tipperary.
Its core mission ensures everyone in society, regardless of age, background, or ability, has equal opportunity to share in the health and social benefits of sport.
A popular game in many counties in Ireland, the card game 25 would help strengthen memory among older players while supporting problem-solving and social development among younger participants.
It would also provide a much needed social outlet in rural areas, where interaction has declined in recent years.