Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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One of the criticisms that has been levelled against the Department and the Revenue Commissioners by some people in this House, and even people with dual roles, is that Ireland is a soft touch. It is suggested that companies can come into Ireland and create employment but avoid paying tax, albeit through legitimate methods of negotiation or whatnot with the Revenue Commissioners. From the point of view of the Department of Finance, how damaging is that constant drip-drip of commentary from Ireland and America over the attractiveness or otherwise of Ireland as a place in which to do business?