Pat Rigney elected Chairperson of Drinks Ireland

Drinks Ireland has announced the election of Pat Rigney as its Chairperson for the next two years. Pat is the Founder and Managing Director of ‘The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney’, best known for Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Speaking about his appointment, Pat said:

“I am passionate about our sector which is of huge importance to Ireland, especially the rural economy such as Leitrim, our local identity and heritage, with breweries, distilleries, cider producers, visitor centres and hospitality venues bringing jobs to communities throughout the country. I and my peers across Ireland are enormously proud to be part of this industry and its Irish heritage. I look forward to contributing to this great indigenous industry as Chair of Drinks Ireland.

“Too often the drinks industry is misrepresented and maligned at home. Our mission in 2023 and beyond will be to rebalance the debate and to highlight the reality that alcohol consumption in Ireland is more balanced and moderate having fallen by a third since 2001, with Ireland’s consumption now within European consumption norms. Indeed, clear evidence is emerging that consumers, particularly young Irish adults are consuming our products in a more balanced and moderate way and are ahead of the often times outdated stereotypes put about in Ireland. I look forward to working with Director Cormac Healy, his team and the Drinks Ireland members as we continue to highlight the importance of the drinks industry to our economy, our heritage and communities throughout Ireland.”