I propose to take Questions Nos. 324 and 325 together.
I am advised by Revenue that VAT returns and payments are largely due two months in arrears. I am also advised that the returns to do not separately identify payments at 13.5% (or at other rates).
Exchequer VAT receipts are €5.3 billion for the first six months of 2020 but for the reasons stated, it is not possible to identify the share of this arising at the 13.5% rate from the tourism and hospitality sector.
Regarding Question 20387/20, I am advised by Revenue that based on analysis of its own data and of CSO information for 2019, and also taking into account my Department’s updated projections for VAT receipts in 2020, it is estimated that reducing the VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality sector from 13.5% to 9% for a full year could cost approximately €500 million.