business

Reaction: Businesses mixed on budget as hospitality groups criticise end of 9% Vat rate

Ibec says budget ‘broadly commended by business’ but several lobby groups take issue with decision not to extend special Vat rate for restaurants, hotels and pubs

Adrian Cummins, chief executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland: ‘Whilst the announcement of the scheme to support SMEs is welcome, it does not go far enough.’ Picture: Fergal Phillips

Businesses have offered mixed reactions to a package of measures in Budget 2023, with industry groups welcoming new energy supports and hospitality groups criticising the end of the special 9 per cent Vat rate.

Paschal Donohoe, the Finance Minister, announced the introduction of the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) today to assist businesses with their energy costs over the coming months.

The €1.25 billion initiative will provide qualifying businesses with up to 40 per ...