Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Allow me to express my condolence to Mrs. McClurg and his family.

The Deputies will be aware that a consultation process on the use of intermediary-type structures and self-employment arrangements was jointly agreed by the then Minister for Finance and the then Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection last year. This consultation invited submissions from interested parties on possible measures to address the loss to the Exchequer that may arise under arrangements of this nature.

I am pleased to note that the Minister has now received the report informed by this consultation and which was prepared by a working group of officials. The report is intended to broaden and deepen the understanding of the impacts for Exchequer revenue of what is often termed "disguised employment". It will inform the debate on any potential measures to address these impacts. Obviously, I will need to consult with my colleague, the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Deputy Regina Doherty, but I would intend bringing the report to Cabinet very shortly and publishing it as soon as practicable.

As the report examines the issues identified by the Deputies, I do not see the need for this amendment.

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