The Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) has revealed that more than 80 per cent of eateries across the country are currently running at a loss, threatening the long-term viability of the sector.

A new 10-point 'survival plan' has been unveiled by the organisation, which aims to protect an industry that contributes around €2bn (£1.8bn, US$3bn) to the Irish economy each year and accounts for a quarter of all Irish tourism jobs. The RAI's plans include calling for a reduction in the Irish national minimum wage, reduced local authority charges and the development of a food tourism strategy and dedicated restaurant division at Failté Ireland.

A reduction in excise duty, the introduction of composite VAT rates on dining out and the removal of air travel tax are also among the measures the RAI has urged as part of its 10-point strategy. A RAI spokesperson said: "Restaurateurs have adapted to the downturn, by reducing costs and menu prices. A series of urgent actions are now needed as the current business environment is unsustainable.

"The Restaurants Association of Ireland cannot highlight enough the importance of this budget in restoring consumer confidence in the country."