President’s Report – April 2025

Whilst uncertainty faces many businesses, not just hospitality, in the European and wider global market, it’s important that we focus on our own businesses as best we can during these challenging times. That’s why celebrating achievements through events such as the Irish Restaurant Awards is so important. I’ve had the pleasure of attending and presenting at the Leinster, Munster and Ulster Regional Awards events and I look forward to the Connaught awards this week.

It’s heartening to see so many businesses, both new and established, thriving in such a difficult environment. By focusing on their products, offering excellent service and providing outstanding produce, they serve as an inspiration for others to do the same.

Recently, Adrian Cummins, Eimear Killeen and I had the pleasure of meeting with Minister Peter Burke. This was a positive meeting where we clearly articulated the concerns of our members and discussed what is needed going forward to ensure the continued viability of restaurants amidst ever-increasing operating costs in Ireland. The Minister committed to the reinstatement of 9% VAT and is exploring additional ways to support SMEs. I’m particularly looking forward to greater engagement with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland so that, as a unified group, we can showcase the quality of food businesses across Ireland to both residents and visitors.

I’m also looking forward to the All-Ireland Restaurant Awards on May 19th at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road. I wish the best of luck to all those who were successful at the Regional Awards and look forward to celebrating Irish hospitality and cuisine on this special night.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland will be hosting several member meetings across Ireland in the coming weeks and months and I encourage you all to attend and participate. Active engagement is key to amplifying these important issues. It’s crucial to engage constructively with the association by attending meetings, sharing your thoughts, supporting campaigns and importantly, encouraging your neighbouring businesses to join us.