Concern has emerged that a large number of businesses in the hospitality sector in Clare could be on the verge of closure due to mounting costs.
It comes as a new survey carried out by the Restaurants Association of Ireland has found 75% of businesses are either considering reducing staff hours or have already done so, due to rising costs.
The RAI warns this could impact employment opportunities for students and younger workers seeking first job opportunities, particularly in rural and regional areas where alternative jobs can be limited.
Robbie McCauley of Homestead Cottage in Doolin says failure to restore the lower 9% VAT rate for the sector could lead to business closures and significant job losses, which he believes would be “horrific” for rural counties like Clare.
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