Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Deputy and I campaigned on the Lisbon treaty. We gave the people specific assurances about tax competency being a national issue. The Government does not support the introduction of CCCTB on the basis that the Government believes it is tax harmonisation by the back door. The Government believes that CCCTB is bad for Ireland and bad for Europe. I will articulate that very clearly when it comes before the Heads of Government meeting at Council level. The governments of other countries share this view very strongly. The Deputy is aware that under the euro-plus pact it is possible for other countries to move to an enhanced co-operation position. I will not say here in the Dáil that I do not support CCCTB and then go and articulate a different position at the Heads of Government meeting.

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