Offaly TD says VAT will return to 9% for food and catering in next budget

Fine Gael’s full commitment to the nine percent VAT rate for food and catering sectors was spelled out loud and clear in the Dáil today (Thursday) and will happen in the next Budget, an Offaly TD has said.

Deputy John Clendennen was speaking after Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said the nine percent rate will be announced at the next Budget.

“A VAT rate of nine percent will be an important respite and will provide certainty for all businesses and hospitality, entertainment, and all other associated sectors indefinitely,” Deputy Clendennen said.

“Having worked both at home and abroad in the sector, from small businesses to multi-nationals, I know how important this is for future investment and local employment.

“The Fine Gael commitment will ensure economic prosperity and the vibrancy of our communities.

“Our party have repeatedly outlined their commitment to rural Ireland in particular and this will benefit every town and village as well as our larger cities,” the TD said.

“I have first-hand experience in the hospitality trade and an acute understanding of the ever-increasing costs of doing business and the ever-diminishing margins.

“We have been unwavering in our commitment to businesses whether it was Covid, the ongoing war in Ukraine and the challenges of inflation and cost of energy.

“This commitment is a long-term step to certainty to a sector which has faced numerous challenges.

“I will be working with my party colleague, Minister Donohoe to ensure this takes effect in the best possible fashion,” he concluded.