Hoteliers Welcome 9% Stay

Hoteliers have welcomed the Government’s decision to extend the 9% tourism VAT rate and reform the energy support scheme for businesses.

Denyse Campbell, President of the Irish Hotels Federation, said that the measures announced now give tourism businesses greater certainty as they grapple with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on Irish consumers and key overseas markets.

“Today’s announcement is a clear recognition by the Government of the challenges facing tourism and hospitality, Ireland’s largest indigenous employer which currently supports over 250,000 livelihoods. It will go a long way in helping to sustain the recovery of our industry at a time when businesses and consumers are facing significant economic and financial headwinds,” she said.

She added that most European countries apply a reduced rate VAT rate to tourism accommodation.

“When you look at the tourism VAT rates among our key European competitors, it is clear that the 9% rate is the right rate for Ireland. At 9%, Ireland is in line with our European neighbours, in particular those countries where tourism plays a key role in their economy.”

Ms Campbell also welcomed changes to the TBESS energy support scheme designed to provide greater assistance to businesses experiencing exceptional increases in energy costs.