The owner of Loafers, Ireland’s longest-running gay bar, has confirmed that the queer Cork landmark is closing its doors.

Owner Ted O’Connell announced the sad news on Twitter yesterday. “Well friends. It is with a profound sense of sadness that I have to announce that today will be my last day opening the door of Loafer’s. To say the least I am devastated.”

O’Connell told Cork’s Evening Echo that the bar, first opened in 1983 by Derek Gerrity, was under lease but that the bank requested vacant possession ahead of a planned sale.

“We have just had one of our busiest weekends with the Women’s Fun Weekend but overall I would say we are down 35% to 40% from when I first took over six years ago,” said O’Connell.

“It’s the same for gay bars everywhere, in London, New York, everywhere. I suppose in a way it is a positive thing that gay people do not feel ghettoised to drink in certain premises.”

He added that the most fitting tribute to Loafers’ legacy would be a Yes Vote in May’s Marriage Equality referendum on May 22.