New Restaurants Association President Vows to Continue the Fight for Better Recognition of Hospitality Sector and Small Business

RAI President Sean Collender, addressing the President's Dinner audience.

[Tuesday – November 5th] – Seán Collender, co-owner of the Kinara Group which operates restaurants in Clontarf, Malahide, and Ranelagh, has begun his two-year term as President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI), the representative body for Ireland’s restaurants, cafés and other food-led businesses in Ireland with over 3,000 members. 

Collender’s presidency commenced last night at the RAI President’s Dinner, where he took over from outgoing president Paul Lenehan of Hartes of Kildare. The handover took place following a day of lively discussions at the annual RAI conference, which addressed pressing industry issues like the rising cost of doing business and fostering innovation amidst economic challenges.

The event, held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Ballsbridge and attended by hundreds of restaurateurs and industry professionals, was formally opened by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan. The day’s discussions reflected the urgent need for policy changes that would provide substantial support to Ireland’s hospitality industry.

In his inaugural address, Collender reaffirmed his commitment to championing the needs of Ireland’s hospitality sector and wider SME community, highlighting his determination to secure policies that genuinely support the industry’s sustainability and growth.

Addressing attendees, Collender expressed disappointment with the recent Budget, noting that hospitality received no mention in the Minister for Finance’s speech. He outlined his vision for the future of Irish hospitality, calling for a realignment of political rhetoric with Government policy. Core to his message was the need for concrete Government support, including a return to a 9% VAT rate for food services and the appointment of a dedicated Minister for Hospitality, who would serve under the economic portfolio of the Department of Enterprise to advocate for the industry’s unique needs.

Collender emphasised that the RAI’s new 10-point strategy provides a roadmap to address the sector’s most pressing issues, from reducing VAT for food services to reforming the Employers’ PRSI and commercial rates systems. The new RAI President’s also address highlighted the critical role restaurants and cafés play in shaping Ireland’s tourism appeal and called for their inclusion in Fáilte Ireland’s remit and Government support. He also advocated for stronger SME representation in national economic dialogues, signalling a robust start to his tenure as RAI President.

Quotes from Seán Collender’s, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, speech:

“It’s disappointing that after months of engagement, hospitality was absent from the Budget speech. This omission speaks volumes, and we are determined to make our voices heard. Politicians talk about supporting our sector, but now we need policies that reflect that rhetoric.”

“The RAI has a clear vision, and our 10-point strategy outlines solutions that can make a real difference for Ireland’s 270,000 hospitality workers. We need VAT reform, a dedicated Minister for Hospitality and meaningful support for SMEs, which are the backbone of our economy.”

“With the support of our 3,000 members, the RAI will continue to stand up for our industry. We are not only advocating for financial relief; we are fighting for recognition and respect that reflect the vital role of our industry in Ireland’s economy, tourism offering and social fabric.”