Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the debate on the Finance Bill. I welcome the fact that the self-employed are getting closer to parity regarding the relevant allowance. The Minister is probably sick of listening to what is being said in this regard. Next year, Revenue will bring in a new system for employers. In fairness, Revenue is contacting employers to explain what this will involve. The message we are getting back is alarming. I am not talking about multinationals, I am referring to businesses such as hairdressers that have two, three, four or five employees. Under the new system whereby employers will be obliged to send information to Revenue every two weeks, accountants are already quoting employers fees of €450 per employee. This will do a great deal of harm to small businesses. If the Minister does nothing else, I ask him to examine this matter and identify how it might be resolved. I can obtain evidence for him if he requires it.

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