Noticeable increase in number of vacant shops and businesses countrywide

Researchers say there's been a noticeable increase in the number of vacant shops and businesses in nearly every part of the country.

Kerry, Donegal, Limerick, Laois and Longford recorded the largest rises.

But mapping firm GeoDirectory, which carried out the research, says it could be years before we see the full impact of the pandemic on businesses.

Chief executive Darragh Keogh believes the collapse of international tourism means there's probably worse to come in some areas.