Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

These matters were discussed by the Select sub-Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform last week. The select sub-committee did not take a vote on them. Ireland has double taxation agreements with 71 countries. It is important to state it participated fully in the discussions which took place at the European Council meeting on the OECD's response on the base erosion profit-shifting issue. While I have a very good relationship with the British Prime Minister, I am aware that the Tory Party conference is taking place. The OECD's report is now available and decisions must be made on what is the best option to take. The Minister for Finance is giving very careful consideration to that matter.

It is true that 166,000 people work for multinationals with operations in Ireland. I had the privilege of opening a section of the Apple plant in Cork, at which an extraordinary number of very highly qualified people work. The same applies at other locations throughout the country. We should not forget this.

It is important to say - regardless of whatever decision is made - that the report did not focus to any extent on the rate tax involved - 12.5%.

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