The Government is being urged to keep the reduced 9% VAT rate for restaurants, hotels and the tourism industry.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland says six and a half thousand jobs have been created since the rate was introduced in July 2011.

The rate also applies to restaurant and catering services, hotel and admission to cinemas, theatres and use of sporting facilities.

But the lowered precentage is due to come to and end by the end of this year, which will also mark the end of The Gathering 2013 initiative.

Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, says its had a very positive impact on the industry: