Dublin considers a tourist tax. Revenue would fund improvements. Hotels might be levied. Tourism groups object.
A prior proposal suggested a one percent hotel tax aimed to raise up to €12 million for Dublin. The city council finance committee discussed it last year, but it was not implemented.
James Geoghan supports a tourist tax, believing it would help improve Dublin. He acknowledges any new tax is unpopular, but believes the sector can support it.
Businesses care about Dublin’s safety and dereliction also concerns them. He asks if locals should fund Dublin’s improvements when smaller ratepayers cannot carry the burden alone.
Relying on government grants is not ideal; Dublin needs to raise its own funds. This would help the city become safer and ensure a city everyone can appreciate.
Michael Magner opposes tourist taxes, believing they send the wrong message. He said it’s wrong to tax international visitors further; Ireland should be attractive to visitors.
He says additional taxes are a bad idea now as Ireland needs to stand out to attract global visitors. The industry won’t support this tax.
Remaining competitive is truly important. They need a world-class product to attract world-class tourists who visit hotels and attractions.