Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)

I raise once again the issue of the reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate on the food part of the hospitality sector. I know a decision has been taken in the budget but the finance Bill can still be amended. I am asking the Government to consider this. My own experience in Sligo-Leitrim shows very clearly that small, indigenous Irish-owned cafés and restaurants, many with a local or unique food offering, are the ones most likely to close because of the increased cost of doing business. I am asking if the Government will pause raising the VAT rate for just a year so that the Departments of enterprise and tourism could properly assess the increase in the VAT so that any decision taken would be based on the best possible evidence and deliver the best possible outcome.

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