Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Yes. It is important to note that the articles we are inserting in our agreement are based on current OECD tax law. Obviously, we are engaged in a process at a time when a situation is developing and evolving. I am confident that the agreements we are asking the committee to ratify today and other international double taxation agreements which we as a country have put in place are in compliance with OECD tax law. I am also confident our officials and those with whom we sign the treaties have made as much provision as possible to allow for the exchange of spontaneous information while awaiting further standards. It is very much an evolving situation. It is difficult to know where it will all end. As of now it is an evolving situation. It is important to note, however, that the taxation agreements which we are asking the committee to ratify today are in accordance with current OECD tax law and, as outlined to the Deputy, Article 26.1 of the agreement with Botswana allows for the exchange of information that has not been requested previously, which information is, therefore, spontaneous.