Programme for Government


Irish Hotels Federation
Ireland


Programme for Government
Hoteliers Welcome Commitment to Support Food Service Businesses in Programme for Government
A decision to reduce the rate of VAT for food service businesses would be a very welcome development
 Wed 15th January 2025


The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) welcomes the commitment in the proposed programme for Government to bring forward measures to support SMEs within the hospitality sector, including in relation to VAT. IHF President Michael Magner says: “A decision to reduce the rate of VAT for food service businesses would be a very welcome development. It would greatly assist the many vulnerable food-led businesses that have faced an uncertain future and escalating cost challenges in recent years."

"This would be an important step toward putting these businesses on a more stable footing,” adds Mr Magner. “We see enormous opportunities for further development of tourism and hospitality as a major engine for growth and economic prosperity the length and breadth of the country. With the right policies and a positive businesses environment, we believe tourism and hospitality has a bright future ahead.”


Tourism at a Glance

As Ireland’s largest indigenous employer, a vibrant and thriving tourism and hospitality industry is vital for the country’s economic well-being:
  • 270,000 livelihoods supported by Irish tourism & hospitality
  • Regional employment – some 70% of tourism & hospitality jobs are outside of Dublin
  • €10bn in revenue generated by tourism annually for the economy
  • Over €2.3bn in taxes generated annually for the State by tourism-related activity




IHF Member Hotels & Guesthouses and tourism industry partners can submit news stories for inclusion by emailing us at hotelnews@ihf.ie


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