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

In pursuing this issue, the only interest I have had in mind is that of the many hundreds of thousands of people who work in very large companies in this country. At a time of economic turmoil, when we are seeing rates of employment and rates of income change very quickly, the only interest I have had, in three years of dealing with this matter, is how we can continue to stand over an approach that does two things. First, it is part of a legitimate model of competitiveness in which taxation plays a part and which allows for the creation and retention of jobs in our country.

Second, it is about ensuring that all taxpayers are treated fairly and with regard to the law. Yesterday's court ruling was not narrow. The court made very clear in its ruling that it did not accept, in its entirety, the case brought forward by the Commission. I do not know what press conference Deputy Paul Murphy was watching but the last thing I am going to take in dealing with this is an undue tone. The work on how large companies are taxed, as well as on how we handle a changing economy and how that is taxed, will continue. Ireland has to play a role in that but we need to ensure our interests and jobs are recognised.

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