Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)

I thank the Minister for his response. I accept that the Minister is unable to intervene for legal reasons. However, it is, as Deputy Doherty pointed out, critical in the case of Highland Bakery that Revenue look at the wider impact of an unsustainable repayment plan. The cost to the State, in terms of social welfare payments if the 42 employees lose their jobs, will be €20,000 per person or €800,000 per annum, which is multiples of the amount owed. Surely, it makes sense for Revenue to put in place a sustainable repayment plan.

The business owner was recently involved in an accident, which may have caused some difficulties in terms of communications. While I accept that Revenue must be independent of the political system, it is hoped it will listen to our views in terms of the economic environment and our belief that this matter can be resolved. It is hoped that following this unfortunate stand-off, which is not in anybody's interests, Revenue will engage with the business owner and agree on a sustainable repayment plan that is in everybody's interest.

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