UPDATE TO VAT

I just noticed on my last purchase in Ireland I only received a VAT refund of 17%.  So I decided to check why online.  I was under the impression it was 21%.  Well after reading up online I found out that the VAT changes regularly and you should always check prior to travel.

These are the current rates as of right now:
Ireland 17.36% and Italy 4 to 20%

Still not a bad deal - I will take 17% back on my purchases.  :)  Some people do not know about the VAT and never apply for a refund.  It takes seconds at the airport and it is usually on your way to the gate.