Popular Tipperary café discusses a 'difficult 2026' for cafés at Leinster House
The Cottage Loughmore is a community-run and award-winning tearoom serving fresh local food
On behalf of the National Community Cafés Action Group, Leonie and Mary of The Cottage Loughmore were delighted to meet with Dara Callery TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht at Leinster House this week.
Leonie and Mary said they apprciated Deputy Callery taking the time, especially during Budget season, to meet with them personally.
They say it was a "very productive meeting and we are grateful for the robust conversation".
"Our 27 Community Cafés across Ireland are facing into a difficult 2026 as the cost of doing business continues to rise," The Cottage Loughmore posted online via social media.
"Our collective goal is to ensure a space for all, to combat rural isolation and to bring amenities back to once thriving villages.
"All of our Cafés are service driven, not profit driven and we directly support many cross-departmental policies, such as our Rural Future, National Volunteer Strategy, and Sharing the Vision.
"Also huge thanks to Senator Imelda Goldsboro for supporting us at the meeting today
"As someone once said "a lot done, a lot more to do"... Watch this space!!!"
The Cottage Loughmore has tearooms which are housed in one of the oldest buildings in the village. It is an authentic old cottage with a half door open to greet you.
Loughmore itself is a small village nestled on the banks of the River Suir in North County Tipperary and is steeped in history. It has a 13th century abbey church, a 14th century castle, a mill built in 1842, historical burial chambers, picnic area and a duck sanctuary.
All these attractions are within walking distance of the popular café.