Varadkar urges shoppers to be VAT watchdogs

CONSUMERS have been urged to use their buying power to ensure VAT cuts lead to lower prices in restaurants, hairdressers, hotels and other recreational services.

As the rate cut from 13.5% to 9% for the tourism and hospitality trades came into effect yesterday, Tourism Minister Leo Varadkar warned that he would reverse the reductions next year if businesses do not pass on the savings to customers.

While he cannot compel them to do so, he said: “There are over three million adult consumers in this state and they have much more power than any Government agency.”