President’s Report – May 2025

With summer fast approaching, I hope you’re all looking forward to brighter days and a strong trading season. May is a particularly significant month for the Restaurants Association of Ireland, as we come together on May 19th at the Clayton Hotel for the All-Ireland Irish Restaurant Awards—an evening that showcases the very best of Irish hospitality and culinary excellence. Congratulations to all who triumphed at the regional awards and best of luck in the All-Ireland finals.

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the HOTREC General Assembly in Oslo, where hospitality leaders from across Europe gathered to address the shared challenges facing our industry. The discussions were both insightful and timely, particularly as new policy changes emerge that will impact our sector here in Ireland. HOTREC, with its offices at the heart of EU policymaking in Brussels, continues to be a strong advocate for our industry across Europe. Alongside the Irish Hotel Federation, the RAI is proud to contribute Irish insights and help shape the broader European hospitality agenda.

What is clear is that from Oslo to Dublin the cost of doing business is at a critical level. In over 25 years working in this industry, I have never seen such intense pressure placed on small and medium-sized enterprises. It’s a burden we must tackle together and I want to thank HOTREC for their warm hospitality and for leading such a vital conversation.

Back home, the Restaurants Association of Ireland team, led by Adrian Cummins, is working tirelessly each week advocating on your behalf, lobbying for policy change and keeping you informed of key developments. I strongly encourage all members to stay engaged: attend branch network meetings, connect with the office and ensure your voice is heard. Your participation strengthens our collective impact.

Wishing you continued success and a prosperous season ahead.