I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 72 together.
The 9% reduced VAT rate for tourism related services was introduced in July 2011 as part of the Government Jobs Initiative. The measure was designed to boost tourism and create additional jobs in that sector. The measure was estimated to cost €120 million in 2011, €350 million in 2012, €350 million in 2013, and €60 million in 2014. As the rate was introduced for a defined period, failure to revert the 9% rate to 13.5% would give rise to an annual Budget shortfall of €350m in a full year.