Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am conscious of the time, so I would like Mr. Cody to discuss the flat-rate expenses issue, which is what I asked the committee to invite him here to discuss. The Taoiseach warned us that changes will not be made until 2020, if at all. He also said that he would politically-proof every outcome when the review is decided. This is obviously concerning, given that the Revenue Commissioners are independent. Can Mr. Cody discuss the engagement he has had with any ministerial officials about this? Can he tell us if the review has been completed for certain types of flat-rate expenses? Will the decision reached apply, meaning that people will lose their flat-rate expenses from January next year? I completely disagree with such an approach; it will place a significant burden on Revenue officials at this time.

Can Mr. Cody inform us whether the flat-rate expenses the Taoiseach and his Cabinet colleagues are benefitting from will be included in the review? I refer to the dual abode allowance, where they can claim up to €3,000 unvouched for maintaining a second residence in a hotel, or €4,500 unvouched for the costs of having an apartment in Dublin. Are they also on the chopping block or is it just shop assistants, hairdressers, fishermen and women who are being targeted?