Celebrity chef joins chorus to keep nine per cent VAT

Seamus Enright

Blacklion-based celebrity chef Neven Maguire is the latest in a long line of food and tourism personalities to join the growing chorus urging the government to keep the nine per cent VAT rate for certain goods and services ahead of the October 15 budget.
In a video posted on YouTube, the owner of the MacNean Bistro explains that two years ago the government reduced the VAT rate food and tourism industry. “They wanted us to grow and create jobs, and it’s working.
“Our industry is growing again, almost 10,000 new jobs have been created and 1,000 other sustained.”
In the video sponsored by the Restaurants Association of Ireland, he goes on to say how vital the lower VAT rate has been for businesses, including his own where he now employs 50 people.
“In the last two years that number has increased by 10 people, something I am very proud of. Irish tourism is growing and confidence is returning,” said Neven. “In communities across Ireland visitor numbers are up and jobs are up.”
What benefits businesses in the food and tourism sector directly helps all their colleagues and suppliers Neven says.
“Keeping VAT at nine per cent is great for the food and tourism sector, it’s great for jobs and it’s great for Ireland. So let’s send out a clear message to the government, if you want to support Irish food, tourism and jobs keep the VAT at nine percent because everyone wins”, he concludes, signing off with a customary smile.
To see the video visit

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