A debate on the matter was discussed earlier today.
The Regional Independents have called for the VAT rate for restaurants, pubs and cafes to be reduced to 9 percent.
The Dáil is debated a motion from the group about increased costs on small businesses earlier today.
The midlands saw a spate of closures last month, with the Wandering Elk in Tullamore and Better Buys in Mullingar the latest to shut their doors for the last time.
Aontú leader and Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín says small businesses are feeling those costs:
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