A Co Monaghan publican and member of the Vintners Federation of Ireland has warned that changes to the VAT rate will not be of benefit to the vast majority of those in the industry.
As of today, the VAT rate on restaurant and hairdressing services falls from 13.5% to 9% under the measure, which was announced in budget 2026.
Raymond Aughey is a Fianna Fail councillor and owns the Squealing Pig Bar and Restaurant in Monaghan Town.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Cllr Aughey said today's changes to VAT is welcome news for premises serving food, however the vast majority of members of the vintners federation in Monaghan don't serve food and see costs going up all the time.
According to the local publican, many in the hospitality industry won't benefit at all from this development.
He outlined the importance of the pub industry, particularly across rural villages and towns in Co Monaghan.
Cllr Aughey believes pubs offer so much more than alcohol and play an integral part of the local community.
He warned that rising costs are causing the demise of rural pubs:
