Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 327: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will offer tax incentives for companies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10475/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government's taxation policy is designed at maximising the employment and economic benefits of industrial development by creating an attractive climate for investment. In this respect Ireland offers one of the most beneficial corporate tax environments in the EU with a corporation tax rate of 12.5% applying since 1 January 2003.

This is a general measure which applies across the board to companies located in all areas and regions in the State. As such, it does not conflict with EU state aid rules. A proposal to offer tax incentives to companies in a specific region or specific towns would be state aid and would have to be examined and approved by the European Commission.