I welcome the proposal which has been a positive introduction for many businesses in the hospitality sector. However, like the previous Deputy, I would like to raise issues around local authorities rating outdoor seating. It is very unfair on businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, which have been hammered in recent years. The increased cost of doing business has resulted in margins tightening and a reduction in tourist numbers. We need to seriously address issues in the hospitality sector before more businesses go to the wall. I held a number of constituency clinics in Mayo recently. Almost before I sat down, business people were my first constituents and what did they talk about? The VAT. It is crippling-----

Sentiment score: 0.11

This is a-----

Sentiment score: 0.00

Yes, but he is at Cabinet.

Sentiment score: 0.21

He has an important seat at Cabinet. I understand he is the Minister for Justice but he is at Cabinet and this is a significant issue. It is going to hurt many businesses across Mayo if it is not addressed. I welcome the proposal around the outdoor seating and its extension. It is a common sense, practical solution but placing rates on new facilities or new seating is not acceptable. I ask the Minister to consider working with the local authorities on that.

Sentiment score: 0.08