The standard rate of VAT will be increased from 21 to 21.5 per cent with effect from December 1st, 2008, making next February's IMF boat show at the RDS just that little bit more expensive.
Running costs of petrol engine boats also go up by eight cent a litre but there is relief that diesel prices stay as they are.
In Maritime Transport and Safety an allocation of €48 million has been allowed which the Department of Transport says will allow it to improve and modernise the Irish Coast Guard 'to meet the needs of a 21st century maritime nation'.
It is unclear if the Irish Sailing Association (ISA) will have any change to its funding following a 7% drop in the Irish Sports Council (ISC) allowance. The national sailing authority depends on the ISC for up to 40% of its funding.
The ISC will receive an allocation of just over €53m for 2009. While the 2008 allocation was €57.6m, Minister for sport Cullen said the 2009 funding was still significant and, “represents an increase of more than 300% on the 2000 funding level of €13m.” Minister Cullen said that the funding will assist the ISC in maintaining its existing programmes while building on recent progress.
