‘Visitor Accommodation Levy would increase targeted funding to keep the streets of our capital clean’ – Paul McAuliffe TD
Paul McAuliffe, Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin North West, has today proposed the introduction of a Dublin Local Authority Visitor Levy to provide a new stream of funding aimed at improving the public realm across the capital and surrounding areas
The former Lord Mayor of Dublin and member of the Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has proposed the introduction of a levy as Dublin’s tourism landscape continues to go grow, setting itself apart as one of Europe’s go-to destinations.
Launching research and a legislative proposal, McAuliffe has noted relevant examples of similar levies in other European countries of similar size to Dublin with apparent success. He also adds that this levy wouldn’t be another tax on locals but would offer a revenue stream funded by those that visit the city, in most instances on a short-term basis.
Commenting on the proposal launched this morning, Deputy McAuliffe said: “This morning, I am calling for legislation to allow for the introduction of a Dublin Local Authority Visitor Levy. If introduced, this levy would provide millions in additional funding for the budget of the city and county’s four local authorities. This has been the topic of discussion both locally and nationally for quite some time and as recently as this week, the Head of Economic Development at Dublin City Council Ross Curley, presented the pros and cons of such a tax to the council’s Finance SPC.
This legislation would empower local authorities to make the decision to impose a levy and it could provide for funding in areas that are frequented daily by tourists on excursions from the city centre.
Any levy like this would have to be specifically ring-fenced for the revitalisation of the city and the amenities used by residents and visitors. It would offer a much-needed funding boost at a time of rapid expansion in our capital and would support local authorities’ investment in the public realm.
Concluding, Deputy McAuliffe said: “I am now calling on the Government to introduce achievable and balanced legislation for the introduction of such a levy that would bring Dublin in line with many capital cities with our European neighbours. This is not an aggressive form of tax, but overall, it would amount to a funding boost that would improve our capital and surroundings for visitors and residents alike.”
-ENDS-