Sligo restaurateur warns that VAT increases will be passed on to consumers

The decision to revert the VAT rate for the hospitality sector back to 13.5% will see consumers taking a massive hit across the region.

That's the view of Sligo restaurateur Anthony Gray, who was speaking ahead of the final decision on the VAT rate being made.

Hoteliers and restauranteurs across the North West have been campaigning to keep the VAT rate at the amended 9%.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Mr Gray, who is the former President of the Restaurant's Association, said that it's the customers who will be paying the biggest price.