Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Given that he has had direct contact from those who will potentially be affected, the Minister understands that there is genuine concern. This is an administrative scheme operated by the Revenue Commissioners. It is not legislative and we do not have any direct say. Given that there are only a number of weeks until Christmas and in view of the fact the Revenue Commissioners' website is stating that any changes will come into effect on 1 January, I am concerned and I want meaningful engagement. I want the finance committee to have an opportunity to dig into this, to look at the report and to examine it in detail.

In his replies to parliamentary questions, the Minister has indicated that each category of the flat-rate expense allowance system is being examined separately. Given the number of categories involved, this could be a very extensive report. We are told in replies to parliamentary questions that the purpose is "to ensure that the expenses granted to each employment category remain justified and appropriate to modern day employments and work practices". This could hit the net pay, or the take-home pay, of these workers within weeks. They will look to all of us for answers. It is important that we hear back from Revenue at an early date - within the next week or so - and that we know what we are looking at and have an opportunity to examine this. It would give the House an opportunity to bring forward any alternative proposals it might want.

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