Restaurateurs seek ‘sunshine tax’ cut

Restaurateurs have hit out at Dublin City Council for raking in a “sunshine tax” on outdoor tables and chairs.

Figures released by the Restaurant Association of Ireland show the local authority made over €450,00 from outdoor seating charges last year. These are the fees paid by restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, and pubs to put customer seating outside their premises.

The association said at a recent meeting with the council, the local authority confirmed that the scheme costs €150,000 to administer, and is therefore making a profit of over €300,000.