Arts groups want performance VAT waived

THE Government is damaging the arts sector by hitting non-profit groups with hefty tax bills for performances by international artists in Ireland, arts campaigners said yesterday.

Organisations from the world of theatre, dance and opera said the 21% VAT on fees paid to performers who do not live in the Republic of Ireland was leaving audiences short changed.

Tania Banotti, chief executive of the Theatre Forum, called upon Finance Minister Brian Cowen to amend the 2002 Finance Act to remove the VAT for non-profit groups.