Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The economic assessment recommends that the 9% rate be brought to an end. I have been clear about this in written parliamentary replies that I have provided in recent days. It fell to a political decision to be made as to when that would be executed. We have made the political decision that it will happen at the end of August. It is important that I am straight with the sector. The extension that has been provided is the final extension. The VAT rate will go back up to 13.5% on 1 September. I have no doubt the sector will continue to make a case. Other sectors will also make the case for preferential tax treatment and will do so in the lead up to the budget. I do not want to mislead anybody. I want to be straight up and honest. It is the final extension and the rate will go back to 13.5% on 1 September.

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