In Dublin, hundreds of workers and owners of small businesses in the hospitality, tourism, retail, childcare, and other industries are protesting rising expenses and what they say is a lack of government support, reports RTE.
After congregating close to Merrion Square, the demonstrators marched noisily past the Department of Finance and Government Buildings to Leinster House.
There is now a rally going on, with many speakers addressing the gathering.
Workers and businesspeople travelled to Dublin to participate from all around the nation, reports RTE.
Protesters are holding posters with phrases like “270,000 hospitality livelihoods under threat” and “Hospitality SMEs left out in the cold.”
“Keep Ireland open” was chanted by the demonstrators.
The President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Paul Lenehan, said the gathered audience that the government has not taken significant steps to address the out-of-control cost of doing business, reports RTE.
Businesses have been forced to come out and protest, according to Mr. Leneha.
He said that the government has not yet paid attention to the industry, but he also noted that the general election that is coming up would be crucial since all 270,000 workers in the sector will cast ballots.
“Something has to change if they want our support,” he continued, reports RTE.
Tánaiste MÃcheál Martin has before stated that the government should examine the cost basis for individuals working in the hotel industry.
Speaking before a Cabinet meeting, Mr. Martin stated that he was aware of the difficulties faced by small firms in the retail and hospitality industries, particularly in light of recent hikes in the minimum wage and rising energy prices.
Mr. Martin claimed to be aware of the difficulties small businesses in the retail hospitality industry face.
“They are under pressure, especially due to rising expenses in a number of sectors. I think Government has to look at the cost base of hospitality, the rapid rise of minimum wage over the last two years has been a factor for retail and hospitality. There are issues there to work on in terms of facilitating a better environment, both on the regulatory front and in terms of cost front for hospitality and energy,” reports RTE.
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