Arts Minister Says Hoteliers "Robbing People Up To Their Eyeballs"

Friday, 5 September 2025 10:24

By Martin Osborne

VAT on hospitality is due to fall to 9%, but beds will be kept at 13.5%.

The Arts Minister says hoteliers are "robbing people up to their eyeballs".

Patrick O'Donovan, who was previously Junior Tourism Minister, made the comments to the Irish Independent, in the wake of high hotel prices being charged during events in the capital.

VAT on hospitality is due to fall to 9%, but beds will be kept at 13.5%.

Minister O'Donovan claimed hotels are “routinely” overcharging customers during major concerts and events, warning it was like “killing the goose that lays the golden egg.”

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