Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The hospitality sector has always been an important part of the economy. The sector is experiencing a period of growth and employs more than 137,000 people. More than 23,000 jobs have been created in hospitality since 2011, largely supported by lower VAT rates. According to the Irish Hotels Federation, the national hotel occupancy rate is at a ten-year high and 82% of hoteliers across the State have benefited from this. However, while business is booming, which is welcome, the 9% VAT costs the State an estimated €350 million per annum.

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