Brexit Huge Blow to Irish Tourism

The Restaurants Association of Ireland CEO, Adrian Cummins, has expressed disappointment at the outcome of the UK referendum reiterating the need for the Irish Government to immediately take urgent steps to allay the concerns for the Restaurant and Tourism sector about the implications of this vote.

He stated, “The outcome of the UK vote has major implications for Irish Tourism and the Restaurant Sector. It is imperative the Irish Government give a clear signal on issues of major importance to the Restaurant sector, our trading relationship with the UK and Northern Ireland and the EU budget. The Restaurants Association is calling for a clear strategy to how the Irish are to deal with Brexit and minimise damage to Irish tourism. The Irish Tourism industry is highly dependent on the British Market as over 3 million from the UK visit Ireland each year.

Mr Cummins continued, “Restaurateurs in border areas are deeply concerned with potential new border arrangements post Brexit. It’s imperative that the 9% vat rate for tourism is kept to help Irish Tourism overcome Brexit. A reduction in excise duty on alcohol must be delivered in this year’s budget to help also.”