Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will appreciate, predicting the cost and take-up of any new tax measure is difficult. When SARP was introduced in 2012, it was estimated that for every 100 individuals that availed of the scheme, the cost to the Exchequer would be approximately €5 million. The recent review of SARP has shown that just 12 individuals availed of the scheme in 2012 and provisional figures show that 31 individuals availed of it in 2013.

As the Deputy will be aware, my officials conducted a review of the special assignee relief programme in advance of this year's budget. The review analysed aspects of the scheme such as the background and rationale for the programme and data available from the Revenue Commissioners, including the cost and take-up of the programme. In addition, a public consultation was held. A report was written on the review and this has been published on the budget website.

Taking into account the review, on budget day I announced the amendments the Deputy has mentioned. Based on discussions with stakeholders, I believe that these measures are a positive step forward as part of a range of measures, forming a roadmap for securing Ireland's place as a destination for the best and most successful companies in the world.  It is not, however, possible to predict what the take-up will be. I have provided an estimated additional cost of €1 million in 2015 for the scheme. My Department and the Revenue Commissioners will keep the levels of take-up of the programme under review.

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