Expansion of work visa system would help combat hospitality staffing problems, says RAI

RAI also wants to see an increase in the tourism budget from €186m to €300m

'Financial supports to enable the sector to reemploy staff and adapt and grow until international tourism returns are paramount,' the  RAI stated. File Picture

Front-of-house hospitality staff should be included in the State's work permits and visa system in order to address staffing challenges in the sector, the Restaurant Association of Ireland has said.

In its pre-budget submission, the RAI said all existing work permits should be extended and the scheme expanded to include hotel, restaurant, and bar managers.