The announcement by the Minister for Finance in the Government’s jobs initiative to lower the VAT rate to nine per cent in respect of certain goods and services related to tourism is good news for Mayo, according to Mayo Fine Gael TD, John O’Mahony.
Speaking after Minister Michael Noonan had announced details of the reduction, Deputy O’Mahony said that for a county like Mayo, which relies extensively on tourism, the news was a major boost.
“This can only be a positive step forward for the tourism industry in Mayo. Already, there is so much good work being carried out in that sector and this announcement will be very significant in the context of allowing the tourism industry continue to grow in Mayo,” he said.
Dep O’Mahony explained that the new rate will apply mainly to restaurant and catering services, hotel and holiday accommodation and entertainment services such as admissions to cinemas, theatres, exhibitions, amusement parks and the use of sporting facilities, including golfing fees. Printed matter such as tourism brochures and maps will also be subject to the new nine per cent rate.
“The tourism sector in Mayo stands to be one of the main beneficiaries from this new reduced VAT rate and I’m sure that everyone involved in the industry is delighted with this new development,” he said.
