Save our Salons:
IHF Protest Outside Leinster House
On October 15th 2024, Salon owners from across Ireland gathered outside Leinster House to join the Irish Hairdressers Federation in protesting the mounting financial pressures on small businesses following Budget 2025. The rally, part of a broader movement uniting SMEs across various sectors, aimed to shine a spotlight on the rising costs that are threatening the viability of small businesses nationwide.
The protest was strategically held during a Dáil session to amplify its impact, with salon owners and supporters holding placards reading “Save Our Salons.” Lisa Eccles, IHF President, delivered a powerful address, calling attention to unsustainable cost increases, including VAT hikes, rising wages, and new statutory requirements
“Past government initiatives like the 9% VAT rate, introduced in 2011, were among the most successful measures ever implemented,” Lisa stated. “In 2018, the government’s own report highlighted how this initiative increased employment, supported new businesses, and encouraged entrepreneurship. Today’s 13.5% VAT rate, combined with additional financial burdens, is stifling that progress.”
While the IHF supports enhanced employee benefits, Lisa noted that recent government policies lack proper consultation with salon industry representatives or small business stakeholders. The protest also underscored the IHF’s urgent call for reforms, including:
- SME representation on the Labour Employer Engagement Forum (LEEF)
- Adjustments to tax, PRSI, and VAT policies
The IHF extended its heartfelt thanks to the salon owners and supporters who attended the protest, highlighting the critical need to support SMEs to sustain Ireland’s economy.
As a member of the SME Alliance, the IHF remains steadfast in its advocacy for fairer policies that recognise the vital contributions of small businesses.
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