Tourism VAT rate
Deputy Brassil asked for a commitment to retain the 9.5% VAT rate for tourism and hospitality, linking it to Government promises. The Taoiseach said he could give no budget commitment yet because tax and spending decisions had still to be made.
I commend the Taoiseach on his advice to the Sinn Féin leader to think out her policies before she proposes them. I remind him of the Fine Gael 2011 health commitment on universal health insurance, and the adage "Practise what you preach" is apt. In the programme for Government, a clear commitment was given to support and grow our tourism industry. In 2013 the Taoiseach was the Minister who introduced the 9.5% VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality industry, the effect of which has been significant. Will the Taoiseach give a commitment that the 9.5% VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality industry will continue into 2019 and beyond?
Comment on this
The Deputy should get the rate right first.