Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I said, much work has already taken place regarding this issue. I thank the Deputy for acknowledging that. It is my intention to meet some representatives of the sector to have a discussion with them on the issue. I will not give a commitment at this point on how I will handle the tax strategy group papers because if I begin to pare out one sector or one issue from the entire process, the entire process runs the risk of being undermined. I am aware of some of the consequences this move may cause. It is difficult for me to disentangle the effect of this move from some of the broader changes that are taking place in this sector, but my officials are examining this alternative proposal and are looking at whether it is compatible with EU law. I plan to be in a position in the coming weeks to meet representatives of the sector and look at where this work stands.

If I may pick up on a different matter raised about the planned change on the tax on health supplements, this is a decision that was made by the Revenue Commissioners to allow more consideration of the issue. However, I want to highlight that they have emphasised to me their very significant concerns regarding the operation of that law in that sector. They have raised serious matters with me that will be further considered. I want to indicate to those in the sector that serious work will need to take place on this matter with the Revenue Commissioners, and I will be playing my part in that.

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