Media Coverage – June 2024

VAT restoration set to be key issue for incoming Finance Minister 

The appointment of Jack Chambers as Finance Minister has been welcomed by the business community but hospitality groups have been quick to outline what they want to see from Michael McGrath’s successor. Representative bodies have praised Mr Chambers for his “proven track record” of supporting the tourism sector, however, the incoming Finance Minister has been urged to review the industry’s VAT rate, as well as tackle the cost of doing business and ensure long-term sustainable development for the sector. 

Minister to lobby for cut in VAT rate amid local restaurant closures

In the wake of the closure of two popular cafes in Athlone this weekend, local Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke has confirmed that he will advocate for a cut in the VAT rate for the hospitality sector in forthcoming budget negotiations.

TD predicts ‘tsunami of business closures’ if 13.5% VAT rate isn’t lowered

Independent Laois-Offaly TD Carol Nolan has warned Government that, unless it takes immediate steps to reduce the current 13.5% VAT rate applicable to hospitality, tourism and retail to 9%, it can expect ‘rolling closures across all sectors’.