VAT Drop Hits Food and Hair | Dublin News

The government just slashed VAT for food businesses and hairdressers from 13.5% to 9%, effective immediately — a bold move aimed at easing rising costs and giving struggling small businesses a lifeline. While hospitality leaders hail it as a shot of stability, critics call it a costly giveaway favoring big chains over local spots, warning it could shrink the tax base. With a hefty price tag of over $230 million this year, some liken it to funding thousands of public jobs — and the Social Democrats are calling the budget the “McBudget.” Supporters argue it’s a vital step to keep small and medium businesses alive, honoring promises made to the sector. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ca20e9f3f9b0aedd