Tanaiste Warns Hotels on Rates

The Tánaiste has warned hoteliers that overcharging for accommodation could risk a return to a higher VAT rate. Leo Varadkar acknowledged that while the tourism sector has had "a very tough few years", it is important to treat consumers well. 

In recent days, a number of instances of high prices, in particular in Dublin, have been shared on social media. 

"One thing I would say to hoteliers is, while there might be a shortage of accommodation and space in your hotels, don’t engage in overcharging,"  Mr Varadkar said on a visit to Cork.

"The Government took a decision not to put the 9% VAT rate back up. When it comes to that again next year, we don’t want to have to put it up again. I don’t want Ireland to get a reputation for being an expensive place to visit, as it did in the past. There’s a cost to be paid for that."