Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I would be concerned if it were to take quite some time. Our reputation as a state depends on us being seen to be progressive and willing to take this action. There is major public disquiet throughout Europe and the world because these companies have engaged in tax avoidance to such scandalous levels. We need to act now. The Minister needs to start correctly. This is an early part of a consultation but that process will not take that long, as it is due to be signed off next year. We must know our position next week. I appreciate that this is a public consultation but I ask that he share the submission with other parties on the same day he sends it to the OECD in order that we can be fully informed.

I am keen to hear the Minister's views on transparency. There is a concern that this will eventually be settled within the G20 but that is not a transparent process. We do not have direct representation on the G20, although we are represented indirectly through the European Union. The experience in the past has demonstrated that there is a closed room and we might not necessarily have control of what is said and goes on. Is that how the Minister sees it? Will it be decided within the G20? Where will this be settled?

See this speech in context