Emer Currie (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Gavan for raising the issue. I applaud the Cross-Border Workers Coalition for driving this issue and bringing it to the attention of people. It is not only a tax issue; it is a quality of life issue and an all-island economy issue. The fact that it was addressed for Covid-19 is fantastic. Given the acceleration of remote working and the expected changes in how we work, I hope we can find a more permanent solution to this.

I raised the matter in a Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting and I was supported by Deputy Joe McHugh. The Minister agreed to look at this. He has since said that he will examine it as part of the work of the tax strategy group. That is going to be important. I realise this is being brought forward in the Finance Bill but it is not as simple as dealing with it or finding a solution for it through the Irish taxation system. It involves the EU and the double taxation network regions as well as Ireland's taxation system. The Minister has agreed to look at it. I encourage my colleagues to raise it with their MEPs as well because it is relevant to them.

As I have said, it is an all-island economy issue. We have done extraordinary work to protect the all-island economy. Thankfully, this week we have seen agreement in principle on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol. Last week, we saw the Brexit Bill, which will help to continue cross-border life as we know it. This week is critical for the all-island economy. I urge the Minister of State to consider that in advance of the work of the tax strategy group. The Revenue Commissioners have shown flexibility because of Covid-19. Will the Minister of State consider maintaining that flexibility until the work of the tax strategy group during the summer is complete?

I wish to emphasise the importance of finding a solution. We do not want double tax liability for people who are working in one jurisdiction and living in another. We want to ensure they can avail of the same flexibility as other workers. It presents a problem in terms of attracting talent.

This is an important issue. The Cross-Border Workers Coalition has done fantastic work on it. I know the Minister has said that he will meet them. That would be a positive move.