Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has called on the British government to bring the north’s VAT rate for hospitality businesses into line with the 26 counties.
The south will soon enjoy a 9% rate, while businesses in the north are burdened with a 20% rate.
The Newry and Armagh MLA said:
“Our hospitality businesses play such a vital role in our economy, creating jobs and investment in the heart of our towns and villages,” said Mr Boylan.
“But at a time when the cost of doing business is skyrocketing, they are being further disadvantaged by the British government’s VAT rate.
“Border constituencies such as Newry and Armagh are particularly impacted, as businesses compete directly with those across the border operating under a much lower VAT rate.
“Newry and Armagh has enormous tourism and hospitality potential, but local businesses are being held back by unfair economic conditions imposed by the British government.
“The all-Ireland economy is continuing to grow and thrive, and reducing the VAT rate would be a total game changer for hospitality businesses, especially in border regions where the disparity is felt most sharply.
“Sinn Féin minister John O’Dowd has consistently pressed the British government on this issue, and it is long past time they listened and acted.”
CRÍOCH / ENDS
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