We need your support and we URGE you, your colleagues, family and friends to join with us to March in support of your fellow professionals, on Tuesday the 23rd of October 2018 join the Hairdressing Council of Ireland outside Leinster House where we will protest and hand our industry requirements directly to the Government.
On Tuesday the (09/10/2018) Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohue T.D announced the Budget 2019, this budget is one that is set to have a significant impact on Irish Hairdressing, on the 1st of January 2019 the VAT rate will increase from 9% to 13.5% for all hairdressing and barbers within the Republic of Ireland.
This VAT increase of 4.5% is coupled with a rise in the National Minimum Wage from €9.55 to €9.80 which is an increase of €0.25 per hour plus a rise in the rate of employers PRSI contribution. These increases are too much for the industry to bare and small businesses both urban and rural are shocked at this VAT reversal at time when the industry is in turmoil.
The Government claims that the 9% VAT jobs incentive has “done its job” and the rate of employment has risen, and the industry has recovered, however, this is not the reality on the ground with the clear majority of employers and salon owners struggling to keep their doors open and retain staff.
This VAT increase will only serve to migrate valued clients into the already very active black market, the industry over the years has seen limited support to eliminate a thriving black economy which is in direct competition with legitimate businesses, it is time to change this and stamp out black market activity nationally. It is time the Government really supported the industry.
A hike in the VAT rate, a thriving black market coupled with rising costs, staffing shortages, rising insurance rate and claims makes the industry very vulnerable to mass job losses.
Block out your columns and get yourself to Leinster House and have YOUR voice heard.
Date: 23rd of October 2018
Meeting Point: Leinster House,
Time: 1.30pm
Bring: Colleagues, Posters and Banners (get creative)
