RAI President Update – July

Thank God the  Summer season has well and truly kicked off and tourism figures are up!  People are more positive, the country is slowly seeing a slight claw back and we as restaurateurs will keep working hard to ensure we give the best possible service and experience to these valued customers and the general public.   We need you to get the message out about the value to be found today in restaurants across the Island.

It’s hard to believe there are only about eight weeks of the season left!  So get promoting and push your business to the max.  I’m afraid I have to bring to your attention the fact that the budget is only around the corner and will be upon us before we know it. To ensure we are not unduly targeted by the minister, we all need to get behind the Restaurant Association and as members be well prepared for what might happen in the coming months. We’d appreciate you taking the time to complete our cost of doing business survey as the data from this will greatly assist us in our lobbying efforts.

We all need to play our part in the lobbying  and campaigning  side of things, and I am asking each and every one of you to step up to the plate and do your best to ensure your local political representatives know the issues that affect us as restaurant owners.

On a totally different note, obviously through my role as President I am spending a lot more time in Dublin and the inner city and unfortunately have to say that I’ve experienced the fear factor of walking around in Dublin, both day and night. I’m also well aware that citizens and visitors to Dublin are experiencing the same. In light of such we are happy now that that the Dublin City Business Forum with representative organisations has been set up with the Gardai to tackle the issues of aggressive begging and street crime. If you are experiencing any issues in your area, please do not hesitate to let us know. We are here to represent your interests and similar forums if needed should be set up.

The RAI Golf society enjoyed another great day out in Powerscourt House for the

RAI Jameson Golf Inter Restaurant Cup. Congratulations to Team Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud who took home the honours. Don’t forget the away outing will take place 13th to 15th of September and places are booking up quickly for this event with 3 rounds and two evening meals at the Farnham estate for only €230 pp. Ring Kristina in office to book and avoid disappointment.

If there’s anything we can do to assist your business over the summer, be sure to let us know. We are here to serve you throughout the year.

Now, don’t forget to enjoy the sunshine!

Slán go foillín,

Anthony Gray

President Restaurants Association of Ireland