PUBLICANS fear an increase in aggressive behaviour linked to drug use, according to Vintners' Federation Ireland chairperson Michael O' Donovan.

He was speaking following an alleged stabbing incident in a pub on Paul Street on Sunday evening.

The publican said that drug use among bar clientele leading to aggressive behaviour was a “major concern” for VFI bartenders and publicans in the city.

Mr O’Donovan who runs The Castle Inn said the organisation had not been in contact with the owners of the bar as they are not a VFI member and he did not know the full details of the stabbing incident that occurred. It is not known whether drugs were a factor in the incident.

On Sunday at around 6.30pm, Gardaí were called to the pub on Paul Street after a man in his 20s was stabbed while working in the premises. The Linen Weaver bar was closed for the evening following the incident. 

The injured party was taken by ambulance to Cork University Hospital, his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene.

It is understood the arrested individual is a student in the city and a broken glass was used in the stabbing. It is believed the victim was the manager on duty at the pub.

Shane Nolan, bar manager at Edison with 19 years’ experience of working in bars in Cork, said members of the city’s bartending community are shaken and very worried by the incident.

“It can always happen, but it is rare for a staff member to be hurt that badly,” Mr Nolan said. “It is always worrying for something to happen one of your own, it puts everything in context.”

Mr Nolan, who previously worked in Soho, said he had never been involved in a stabbing incident but a robust ruckus breaking out is not unusual in the city.

“I do think Cork is getting rougher,” he said. “It seems to be going backwards. Something is happening.”

Gardaí appealed for witnesses to contact them at the Bridewell Garda Station on 021-4943330 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.