'Save Our Restaurants', Pleads RAI

There has been a warning that one in every three restaurants face closure in the next six months.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland says one in three restaurants is facing closure in the next six months.

The group claims that over 80% of Irish restaurants are running at a loss, putting 21,000 jobs at risk and has now launched a 10-point plan for the survival of the sector.

Chief Executive Adrian Cummins said the first thing the Government should do is reduce the minimum wage.

"What we are looking for is a reduction in the national minimum wage, from €8.65 down to €7.65, and the abolishment of the catering JLC minimum rates, which is 8% higher than the minimum wage" he said.

The group is also calling for the abolishment of the Sunday premium, under which restaurants have to pay time and a third when they open their doors on a Sunday.

The Irish Restaurant industry employs 64,000 people and contributes €2 billion to the Irish economy each year.

However, Irish restaurateurs pay the highest catering wage rate in Europe and has the highest excise duty on wines in Europe while Irish food cost inputs are 24% above the European average.

Adrian Cummins, said: "Currently, the Irish Tourism Industry is facing a crisis, and more particularly the Restaurant and hospitality sector.

"This crisis has been illustrated by a recent Report of the Tourism Renewal Group which identifies 'survival' and 'recovery' recommendations," he said, noting that the Restaurants Association of Ireland is now calling on the Minister for Finance to assist tourism in becoming a significant driver of the economy's return to growth.

(BMcC/GK)