NEWS

The newly-formed Government has pledged its support for Irish SMEs, with changes to the VAT rate for the retail and hospitality sectors among the proposals.

Hairdressers are included in the hospitality sector, which has been campaigning for a return to the 9% VAT rate from the current rate of 13.5%.

The measures were revealed in the Programme for Government 2025, and will be implemented as part of the next Budget. The Government said it also plans to establish a new Small Business Unit to back SMEs, ensuring they have support and a dedicated focus in Government; set up a Cost of Business Advisory Forum, which will include a review of all business taxes and costs; and ensure businesses are consulted before new legislation or policies are introduced that impact SMEs.

In addition, it intends to conduct a comprehensive review to assess the cost structures for SMEs and family-owned businesses to identify areas where costs can be reduced; ensure a skilled labour force by providing practical support for on-the-job training and apprenticeship schemes; and assist businesses in adopting sustainable practices and digital technologies.

Ireland’s first LGBTQ+ barbershop and salon opens

Ireland’s first LGBTQ+ barbershop and salon has opened in Dublin.

Queer Hawk in Temple Bar is the brainchild of Irish-Brazilian couple Thiago Mulligan and Kiro Rodrigues, who are on a mission to provide an environment where everyone feels respected, safe, happy, free and included. They said their business is a space that is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of all clients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

In an interview with GCN (Gay Community News), Rodrigues said the idea for the business came about when they spoke to others in their circle and discovered there was “a need for a space that is, in its essence, kind of non-binary and that doesn’t discriminate”.

According to the couple, the response so far has been hugely positive, especially from the trans and non-binary community.

“People are coming from far and wide, which reassures us that we’re doing the right thing, that we’re on the right track and that we’re providing a service that was needed,” said Rodrigues.

Dāh a Wellness hosts official launch event in Dublin

A new wellness centre in north Co Dublin has held its official launch event.

Located in Sutton Cross, Dāha Wellness is a purpose-built facility with six treatment rooms, a consultation room, a multipurpose room for classes and workshops, and a social area where clients can relax.

Founder of Dāha Wellness Aisling Hassell has a background in technology, with her career seeing her work for a number of global organisations. The Dāha Wellness directors are Sinead Sisson, who previously ran her own salon, and Jenny Faison, who is an awardwinning therapist and former holistic centre owner.

According to Hassell, the centre has partnered with some Irish brands that reflect its focus on sustainability and nature. It is offering a number of Seabody facial and body treatments, while Skin Formulas products will be used with its Dermalux LED therapy.

“The Dāha concept has been several years in the making, but it is built on the desire to make it easier for busy people to manage their wellbeing,” she added.