Written answers

Tuesday, 23 May 2006

9:00 pm

Photo of Róisín ShortallRóisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 155: To ask the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the situation where a company (details supplied) collapsed owing money to the Revenue Commissioners; the steps which have been taken to have the outstanding debt recovered; his views on the fact that companies may reform to avoid tax liabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19273/06]

Photo of Brian CowenBrian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Tax debts due by any specific taxpayer are a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that this information is confidential to the taxpayer concerned and accordingly they are not in a position to comment on the individual case covered by the Deputy's question.

On the broader issue referred to by the Deputy I am advised by Revenue that they have an active programme of monitoring new company registrations for tax purposes with a view to identifying new company formations designed mainly to avoid tax liabilities. Where they identify such cases, they will and do take robust collection and enforcement action to counteract such activity when non or late tax compliance occurs in the new company. Such action may include petitioning the court for the appointment of a liquidator and through that process and in conjunction with the Director of Corporate Enforcement, if appropriate, seeking to have the behaviour of the directors examined with a view to restriction or disqualification. Such action is in addition to action taken to recover debts due by the old company and to address the behaviour of the directors of the old company. The liquidation action and subsequent processes are undertaken in accordance with and subject to company law.

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