The Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) has urged the government to immediately implement emergency business supports to prevent closures and job losses as the spread of COVID-19 hits the industry.
The association said that its members are experiencing 80% corporate booking cancellations due to COVID-19, and that the cancellation of the St. Patrick's Day parade in Dublin will result in more financial losses for restaurants and local businesses.
However, the RAI added that it fully supports the government's decision to cancel all parades in the interest of public safety.
VAT, Loan Payments And PRSI
The association wants the government to immediately cut the VAT rate to 9% for tourism and hospitality businesses for a minimum of six months.
It also wants banks to defer loan repayments for at least six months and said that Revenue should introduce a moratorium on VAT payments.
Additionally, the RAI is calling for employers' PRSI to be halved in order to support employers.
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